Green belt development appeal dismissed

An appeal to overturn the decision to block a development of "multi-generational" homes on green belt land has been dismissed.

The planning application for five properties near Moorland Grange Farm, off Otley Road in Eldwick, was initially refused by Bradford Council on the grounds that it would create a "large, imposing and incongruous" development.

Property company Acrehowe said the local authority's decision was "flawed" and the new homes were "much-needed" and appealed the decision.

However, a planning inspector said that while the homes would provide some advantages they would ultimately breach green belt policy by "encroaching into the countryside".

Acrehowe's appeal also said: "We consider the benefits of the scheme significantly and demonstrably outweigh any adverse impacts and as such the scheme should be approved to enable Acrehowe to deliver much-needed new homes."

Referring to the claim about the homes being in demand, the planning inspector said: "I do not doubt they would provide meaningful benefits in terms of health, social support and assistance, particularly where they provide ground-floor annex accommodation.

"There would likely be benefits in terms of health and well-being for residents who need such homes and potentially benefits could also arise though less reliance on social and health services."

But the decision also stated there was a "strong rural character to the site" with traditional buildings and undeveloped fields, so the homes would not be appropriate.

The report added: "Although it is purported that rural areas have fewer multi-generation homes, it has also not been substantiated if there is a particular unmet need for this type of development, other than a more general housing supply need."

The appeal called for the council to pay any costs, but the planning inspector also dismissed this claim, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The costs appeal had claimed the local authority had made a number of errors in the application, including failing to acknowledge a footpath on the site and unwillingness to communicate about what was needed to get the plans approved.

The appeal decision added: "It is not uncommon for council's to not engage in further correspondence where they consider the proposal would be contrary to planning policy."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.