00:00Plans to build a large business park and new homes on farmland near Wakefield are set to
00:06be decided by councillors, following a recommendation for approval by planning officers. The proposals
00:12cover agricultural land at Broadcut Farm, close to the River Calder, and the motorway
00:17junction at Calder Grove. Developers say the scheme would include a business park alongside
00:23up to 100 homes and argue it would support economic growth. According to the applicant,
00:30the development could help meet housing targets, create more than 700 jobs and contribute around
00:36£40 million a year to the local economy. However, the plans have attracted significant opposition.
00:43More than 600 residents have objected, including local councillors, the area's Member of Parliament
00:48and several community organisations. Opponents say building on the site would result in the loss
00:55of valued green space, increase flood risk and damage wildlife habitats. Others have raised concerns
01:02about traffic, noise and air pollution, arguing nearby roads may struggle with additional demand.
01:08A planning officer's report says the development is acceptable in principle and meets the definition
01:13of sustainable development, subject to conditions. Wakefield Council's planning committee will make
01:19the final decision on the 12th of February at a public meeting after considering representations
01:24from all sides submitted during the consultation.
Comments