Political row erupts over housing plan for green belt

Labour-led Kirklees Council’s Cabinet backed the masterplan for the development of land next to Dewsbury Rams’ Tetley’s Stadium.

But after Tuesday’s decision a senior Labour councillor said party colleagues had no choice but to back the development because of a decision taken when Conservatives were in charge.

Councillor David Sheard, deputy leader, said: “This is green belt land but we had no choice because of the decision taken in 2008. But it has been made clear to us that if we failed to agree the plan we could be open to claims in future for compensation.

“All of this land is within green belt and was not proposed for development. An amount of money will be paid to the council on completion of the agreement, and a larger amount to the rugby club, depending on what is called ‘overage’ or profits.

“But because the development criteria meet that set by the previous cabinet in 2008, even though we do not endorse the plan, we have no choice but to agree.”

The masterplan is a development plan from the leaseholders, Stirling Investment Properties LLP and Scotfield Limited, which needed approval by the council as landlord in advance of any planning application.

The plan will replace the practice pitch, include two multi-use games areas, a park and green corridor, public space, footpaths and cycleway, car parking for the club and a 234-unit residential development.

Lib Dems leader Kath Pinnock criticised the 2008 deal and also raised questions about who will benefit.

“Is it the Rams, the Council, the local community, or the developer? I think we should be told all the facts before any final decision is made.”

Tory group leader, Councillor Robert Light said: “The agreement was reached in good faith by the then Cabinet putting first the interests of the Council, Council Tax payers, Dewsbury town, and rugby league in Kirklees. Any suggestions of any improper conduct by the then Cabinet are completely erroneous.”

No-one from the club was available to comment.