First look at new Woodhouse garden suburb of 280 homes near Brighouse

Redrow Homes wants to build the first phase of what is known as the Woodhouse Garden Community and is preparing to submit a planning application to Calderdale Council.

The first phase involves approximately 280 homes, green spaces, footpath and cycle links, as well as a community orchard.

The site is located between Rastrick and Clifton, bounded by the M62, Huddersfield Road and the railway line - and is next to Bradley Wood Scout campsite.

It is one of two garden suburbs set to be created in the Brighouse area bringing around 3,000 homes in total as a key part of Calderdale’s Local Plan.

The Woodhouse scheme is expected to provide 1,200 new homes along with a new school, and Redrow’s impending planning application is the first phase.

Redrow’s website detailing the plans so far, states that the consultation focuses on the first phase of around 280 homes, involving detailed layouts, house types, landscaping, and public spaces.

Redrow homes in Yorkshire (Image: Redrow)

Of the response so far, Traci Moore, land and planning director at Redrow (Yorkshire), said: “We have sought the views of the local community to help shape our proposals for the first phase of around 280 much-needed new homes, as part of the wider Woodhouse Garden Suburb in Brighouse, which is set to provide a total of 1,200 new homes and community facilities including a new school.

“Our community consultation has been very successful, with our dedicated website receiving almost 8,500 visitors and around 370 responses.

“Our plans for this new neighbourhood include a diverse range of energy efficient homes to meet the needs of local people, including 20% affordable properties. In addition, we’re hoping to create new green spaces to positively promote outdoor sport and play and encourage local wildlife to thrive, including a community orchard.

“There will also be a network of new footpaths and cycleways to connect to the wider site and surrounding neighbourhood and amenities.

“We hope to submit a planning application later this year.”

Redrow's masterplan for the first phase of Woodhouse Garden Community near Brighouse (Image: Redrow)

The Local Plan, which was adopted in March, has proved controversial with one group, Clifton Neighbourhood Forum being granted High Court permission to challenge it.

But senior councillors are saying work on the controversial planning blueprint will not be halted pending the judicial review hearing.

But Leader of the Council, Councillor Jane Scullion said work would go on as they were the authority would be able to present “strong legal arguments to defend the lawfulness of the Local Plan”.