Nature reserve proposal for site

The site, in Bankfield Court, had originally been granted planning permission by Kirklees Council last year to be made into nine allotments.

But the council has since found toxic substances in the soil, meaning the allotments can no longer be built.

Dr Jennifer Edwards walks her dogs on the site and believes it is the perfect opportunity to help preserve wildlife.

“It would have been a shame to make this site into allotments,” she said. “A lot of people use this land, and I think it would be perfect to make into a nature reserve.

“We need to make this land into an asset for our community.”

Dr Edwards said she will contact her local councillor to look into the possibility.

Many residents were concerned the soil at the site, said to be a former rubbish tip, would be unfit for growing fruits and vegetables.

An investigation was taken out by the council, who found