RESIDENTS opposed to plans for a housing development in Cononley have reacted with anger after an objection by the highways authority was lifted.

North Yorkshire highways initially recommended refusal of plans for up to ten homes at Madge Bank in Crosshills Road because they would be “unacceptable in terms of highways safety”.

But following changes to the proposals by the developer, it has now issued a revised comment. In its submission to Craven District Council, highways stops short of recommending approval, but advises the addition of several conditions “if permission is granted”.

The bid has already raised many letters of objection from residents, Cononley Parish Council, English Heritage and the Craven branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).

A letter to the authority states: “We have given plenty of reasons why this scheme is unsafe, all we ask is you apply your professional judgment and see what is obvious — there are safety problems caused by the proposed layout.”

Ward councillor, Patrick Mulligan, said he thought the original objection should stand. “This is not a level playing field — the developer has had all the advantages,” he said.

The outline application is for four detached homes, two semi-detached and a block of four affordable homes.

In its design and access statement to the council, Sten Architecture says the scheme will “add value to the conservation area and protect its character and appearance”. It also offers highway safety improvements, off-street parking and a possible new informal community garden next to the village recreation area.