White Rose set to grow despite thorny questions

Developers have submitted an outline planning application to extend the out-of-town shopping complex in Dewsbury Road.

The application will be considered by members of Leeds City Council's plans panel east on Thursday but officers are recommending councillors give the plans the thumbs up and refer it back to officers to grant permission subject to a number of terms and conditions being met.

A report to members warns that the decision could be called in by the Government.

Land Securities Group want permission to extend the centre, a move that would increase floorspace by six per cent, with retail floorspace increasing by 3.2 per cent. Those behind the application also want to extend the space devoted to cafes and restaurants. Officers are recommending the first use of the new retail space should be limited to existing tenants.

One resident has written to the council raising concerns the centre is too dependent upon cars, while Morley Town Council say national guidance restricting growth of out-of-town centres must be upheld.

Officers say the plan means more retail space created away from the city centre but backing it will allow them to regulate future development at the centre.