Villagers get chance to view masterplan to regenerate ‘run down’ industrial site

The emerging masterplan for Manywells Industrial Estate is being shown to residents today, in Cullingworth Methodist Church, between 5-7pm, and on Saturday, in Cullingworth Village Hall, from 11am-1pm.

Regeneration company Commercial Estates Group (CEG) aims to invest in the site in order to deliver a redevelopment scheme comprising commercial space and some new homes, with access to the woodland and nature areas on the site.

The estate currently houses a number of small businesses, which employ around 65 people.

CEG says that the majority of buildings are old, in a very poor condition and too expensive to repair.

It hopes to provide housing for the first-time buyer and families, including affordable homes.

In a survey of 40 people in November, everyone said they wanted to see the site developed.

The majority wanted to see semi-detached or detached houses opposed to apartments and town houses and preferred light industrial use on the site as opposed to heavy goods vehicles.

The results said residents were “generally happy” with a nursing home on the site.

CEG said it intended to enhance over six hectares of woodland, complete with footpaths and trails for local community use.

The company added it was keen to ensure the new development was sympathetic and in keeping with the character of the village.

Steve McBurney, from CEG, said: “We have reflected comments from residents in our draft masterplan, which we will display at the latest set of exhibitions. This draft masterplan will then be amended and form part of an outline planning application.

“The main aim of the masterplan at this stage is to provide an indication of the type and quantum of the new commercial and housing developments and open space areas and their broad location on the site.”

Further consultation is due to take place at the detailed planning application stage to discuss the precise details of building design, materials and siting and landscaping.