by Joe Jeffrey
Public and Councillor object to caravan site plans over effect it would have on environment
A company has appealed against a council’s decision to refuse planing permission for a new caravan site in West Yorkshire amid objections from the local public.
The proposal for the site in Heptonstall by Westbourne Legal Services Ltd, with a view to turning agricultural land into a touring site with facilities building was met with fierce objection from nearby residents, with reasons cited including the impact such a site would have on Heponstall’s picturesque landscape, as well as an increase in traffic in the area.
Prior to the submission of a third planning application, two previous applications were made – in both 2013 and 2014 – but were dismissed over claims of the negative impact the propped site would have on the green belt and character of the area.
However, it’s not just the public who have appealed against the application, with Councillor Janet Battye stating previously: “”My objections to this application continue to be because I have serious concerns about the impact of putting a caravan site in a visible place on top of the horizon in this wonderful landscape and because of the number of vehicles it will draw either up Lee Wood Road which has been narrowed because of flood damage, or through the old village of Heptonstall.”
One of the applicants in favour of the proposed site, Steve Holt, said: “I believe Calderdale should be promoting projects like this for tourism and promoting quality accomodation.
“This will be really positive and we are trying to protect the countryside and we don’t want to cause any damage.
“Caravanners are especially friendly people who drive carefully and follow signs, no vehicles would be going through Heptonstall,” he added.
In light of the recent request for further consideration, Councillor Battye again stepped to the forefront of the debate, adding: “My view remains the same. This land is on top of the hillside, very visible and in an important area of countryside between the lovely old village of Heptonstall, Hardcastle Crags and open countryside and moorland.
“Not a suitable place for a caravan park which would put a lot of extra vehicles onto narrow, country lanes which are not able to cope with heavy traffic.
What do you think? It would be interesting to read your comments below.
