Bradford Council refuses Ilkley home plan on Green Belt grounds

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Nov, 15:01 · Archive

Bradford Council has refused plans for a single dwelling on land off Ben Rhydding Drive in Ilkley, citing Green Belt harm and protected trees.

Bradford Council planning officers have refused an application for a single dwelling on land north of Ben Rhydding Drive in Ilkley, a private road on the edge of the town. The applicant, Mrs Zoe Wood, who owns the site and has used it as domestic garden since 1976, sought Permission in Principle for the construction.

A planning officer's report concluded the proposal should be refused because the site lies within the Green Belt, beyond Ilkley's settlement boundary, and is not considered a sustainable location for residential development. The plot is surrounded by mature trees protected by a Tree Preservation Order, presenting significant constraints. Officers describe the area as characterised by large homes within spacious plots, creating a distinctive leafy environment.

The application attracted significant local interest, with 17 representations submitted. Five people supported the proposal, arguing it would contribute to housing supply and offer a sustainable location close to local facilities and transport links. However, 12 objections were lodged, raising concerns about Green Belt impact, protected trees, wildlife habitats, drainage and traffic levels on Ben Rhydding Drive. Some objectors questioned whether the site could legitimately be considered 'grey belt' land under recent planning policy changes.

How it is being reported

• Home plan refused over Green Belt, access and protected tree concernsBradford Council refuses plans for a home off Ben Rhydding Drive, Ilkley, citing Green Belt harm, poor access, sustainability and protected trees.Telegraph & Argus · 13 Nov, 14:52
• Ilkley home plan refused over Green Belt, access and protected tree concernsBradford Council refuses plans for a home off Ben Rhydding Drive, Ilkley, citing Green Belt harm, poor access, sustainability and protected trees.Wharfedale Observer · 13 Nov, 14:49

In this story: Bradford Council · Zoe Wood · Ilkley · Ben Rhydding Drive

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