A developer is pushing forward with a second set of plans to build a takeaway and DIY superstore in Baildon.
Commercial Development Projects withdrew its plans for a 2,357 square metre Wickes and a 328 square metre KFC on the Lower Holme Mills site, off Otley Road, before Christmas, despite having the support of planning officers at Bradford Council.
The proposals had, however, sparked opposition from the parish council and numerous Baildon residents and businesses, all worried about the extra traffic the development would bring.
To give itself more time to win over the critics, the developer withdrew the application, but last week re-submitted an almost identical scheme. There are only minor alterations to the parking layout, but it thinks the amended plans will get the support needed for the development to go ahead.
If approved, the two stores would generate 45 jobs, while their construction would create another 60. The shops would include 113 parking spaces and lead to improved road surfaces around the site and traffic lights. The applicant says the scheme would rejuvenate a derelict area and “encourage further development on the Otley Road corridor.”
Its agent has revealed that the company is ready to start construction on the site as soon as permission is granted, and the two chains have already signed up to take on the buildings.
The site had previously been earmarked for apartments.
Councillor Val Townend (Con, Baildon), said she was sceptical she would be won over a second time round. She was due to speak against the previous application at a planning committee before it was withdrawn.
“I will be opposing it again. It is the location that is the problem. I would like to see more regeneration, but I think this is going to make the surrounding roads much more dangerous,” she said. “I think the DIY store will be predominantly used by builders and tradespeople, buying things at the start of the day at peak traffic times.
“We need more infrastructure, especially with the traffic coming from the new development at Buck Lane. I opposed that too because of traffic.”
Commercial Developments hopes to meet the parish council this month to try to gain its support. People have until January 28 to comment on the plans, and Bradford Council will make a decision in late March.
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