Time running out for action on homes plans, village told

People have until January 31 to comment on proposed earmarking of land for house-building that could see 1,720 homes built on three large plots in Scalby, outside Scarborough.

The SOS (Save Our Scalby) Campaign has been launched by Scalby Village Trust, which fears opening the land up for future development could ruin the picturesque community.

Campaigners argue if builders snapped up all three sites the number of new homes would double the size of the village, spoil its character and overwhelm local roads and services.

The trust's chairman, Caroline Pindar, said: "It is imperative that if people want to have their views heard by the council they get them in as soon as possible.

"Anyone who has made a comment should have had that comment acknowledged and if they haven't, they should be asking the council what is going on."

The trust believes any expansion of Scalby should involve Scarborough's Urban Renaissance team, which has been the guiding light of the town's regeneration.

"Scalby is part of urban Scarborough and as such any future large development should be done under the auspices of urban renaissance," added Mrs Pindar.

"That way any development happens with the full involvement of the local community. We are talking with the Renaissance Town Team and very much see their involvement as a positive way forward."

To comment on the proposals, visit www.scarborough.gov.uk, choose the Environment and Planning link and then click on Local Development Framework - or get a form from trust secretary, Sheila Johnson, on 01723 364660.