Fears over homes plan near 12 century church in Leeds with links to Royal family

Hallam Land Management Limited and Barrett David Wilson Homes are eyeing fields east of Otley Road in Adel, around 100 yards from the Grade I-listed St John the Baptist Church.

The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton’s grandparents Peter and Valerie were married at the rare Norman landmark. And the outline plan is set to be delegated for approval after the South and West Plans Panel from 1.30pm next Thursday.

Adel resident Johnny Abraham, 34, said: “There are very few places in England where you have a site in the setting of a 12th century church, and one which technically now has links to the Royal family.”

He added that sites near such landmarks should be protected and only considered for development as a last resort.

Coun Barry Anderson (Con) also raised concerns that Leeds City Council planning officers rushed a report recommending the site’s approval in order to meet targets to provide space for homes in the city.

A Leeds City Council spokesman said: “The council is continuing to work with the applicant and Historic England on elements of the application, but it is for the panel to discuss and then make a decision.”

He added that the site is in the Site Allocations Plan, which earmarks housing spots.

Mark Johnson, planning consultant for both developers, said: “We welcome the officer’s report. We have worked closely with the council over the last two years to reach this position and, subject to getting a positive decision from the planning committee next week, look forward the detailed application shortly afterwards and making a start.”