VILLAGERS are fighting plans for a 30-home development on green belt land.

Opponents of the scheme – for a mixture of affordable properties, plus a dozen allotments – claim it would put massive strain on Cullingworth's infrastructure, create a flooding risk and overload already-congested roads.

And the campaigners say several brownfield sites more suitable for development already exist in the village.

Their concerns over the loss of green belt are echoed by district councillor Simon Cooke, whose Bingley Rural ward includes the plot, at the junction of Haworth Road and Turf Lane.

"There are at least three other potential housing sites in the village all on brownfield land," he said.

"The critical issue here is the integrity of Cullingworth's green belt.

"But also there is simply no need whatsoever for this scheme. We have just had permission granted for 233 houses, including affordable homes, at Manywells.

"The applicant is trying to push for something that is not required."

Cllr Cooke met with about 20 residents on Friday to discuss their fears over the proposed scheme.

Several have already submitted objections to Bradford Council.

Mrs Joanne Mitchell, of Turf Lane, said: "The proposal is wholly wrong for this area.

"Where is the infrastructure funding coming from to cope with this influx of new families? The schools are already well oversubscribed and nearly at breaking point."

But ward councillor Michael Ellis, whilst accepting there will be opposition to building on the green belt, says he welcomes the possibility of new houses for rent by local residents.

"The applicants have offered to work with the village council and the fact it would be involved in nominating local tenants for the properties has got to be good," he said.

"The scheme would also meet a need for housing for elderly people, with bungalows included in the proposal.

"And there would be allotments, including some with raised beds for disabled users."

Village council chairman Jacqui Guy said the application was considered this week by its planning committee, which has recommended refusal.

"The village plan in 2004 gave an undertaking to residents that the parish council would continue to vigorously support the restriction of development to infill and brownfield sites only," she said. "That statement is as relevant today as it was then."

The plans – submitted by Partner Construction Ltd and Yorkshire Housing – include two two-bedroom bungalows, 15 two-bedroom houses and 13 three-bedroom properties, plus the allotments.

Agents dealing with the application were contacted by the Keighley News for comment, but hadn't responded as we went to press.