Chidswell: Decision looms on plans for 180 houses as part of 1,500-home masterplan

The plot of land at Heybeck Lane makes up part of a much larger development plan of around 1,500 homes. This is split across two sites referred to as Chidswell and Heybeck. Last year, outline planning permission was secured for the smaller Heybeck part of the scheme.

Throughout the planning process the Chidswell Action Group (CAG) raised numerous concerns and applied for a judicial review into the decision. This saw the previous permission quashed on the grounds that Kirklees Council had failed to publish the Section 106 agreements in advance of the planning permission.

In October, not long after the outcome of the review was announced, another period of public consultation began. Campaigners were left fearing that the plans would simply be “rubber stamped” by the council, claiming officers had said the application would not be determined by a planning committee.

However, the plans – once again seeking outline permission – have been scheduled on next Thursday’s (December 4) Strategic Planning Committee agenda. They are going before the committee at the request of Coun Cathy Scott and Coun Habiban Zaman, as well as due to the high number of objections raised in the most recent round of public consultation.

In this time, 115 representations were made, including objections from CAG, the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Woodland Trust. Some concerns include the impact on Ancient Woodland, wildlife and local infrastructure.

One objector commented: “This site represents far more than open land; it is an essential green lung for our town. Residents regularly use the area for walking, recreation, and connecting with nature. The proposed development would irreversibly damage a landscape that plays a vital role in the wellbeing of both individuals and the wider community.

“The ecological value of the site cannot be overstated. It provides habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including protected species such as otters, bats, woodpeckers, and red kites.

"The loss or disruption of this environment would place these species at serious risk and run contrary to both national and local policies on biodiversity protection and environmental stewardship.”

But council officers have recommended the application is given the green light, subject to a number of conditions being met including contributions towards highways, education, and sustainable transport.