Plan for 400 new homes on green land

Construction firm Parsons Brinckerhoff sent letters to residents explaining its proposal to build around 400 homes between Soothill Lane and Grange Road.

The firm said it had been appointed by Kirklees Council to apply to fill a need for additional housing, but a ward councillor said the plans would mean trouble for local services.

Coun Hanif Mayet (Lab, Batley East) said: “As a ward councillor I am extremely concerned. I had already expressed concerns about the development at the old Soothill Cricket Club because of traffic. During the rush hour it is very, very difficult on Soothill Lane. But because the development was for affordable homes it went right through.

“The other thing I am extremely concerned about is infrastructure. If there is going to be another 400 plus houses it will put a major, major strain on doctors’ surgeries and there will be an overwhelming demand for school places.

“And it will be another piece of green land that is taken away, which is a great shame.”

The firm has not yet formally applied for planning permission and said it will hold a consultation with residents running until July 20.

This will not affect the consultation period when the firm submits a formal application.

If approved, the development would begin at Mill Forest Way to the south west and stretch north to Lydgate Junior and Infant School.

The company said the exact number, type and size of the homes would be confirmed at a later date.

Kirklees Council had not provided a comment at the time the News went to press.

Residents affected by the development can email [email protected] to respond to the consultation.