A group which campaigned to preserve a green space in Micklethwaite is being reformed for a fresh fight against developers.

Members of Greenhill Action Group are angry that Bradford Council has allocated land off Sty Lane for housing in the draft unitary development plan.

They say the 43-acre site, close to the famous Five Rise Locks, is an area of beauty and should remain to form a natural boundary to maintain the individual identities of Micklethwaite, Crossflatts and Bingley. And they are calling a public meeting tomorrow and planning a protest march on Saturday.

Pauline Wood of Greenhill Drive, who is spearheading the move, said: "What we want to do is to take it out of any proposed building plan whatsoever because we are concerned it could get nibbled away bit by bit with development. There are many problems with building at the site because the bridge would need to be closed and the canal diverted to allow access."

Rosemary Hollins, of Sty Lane, who also vigorously opposes development, said she fears up to 400 houses could be built if the area remains as a housing site and she added: "We want as many people as possible to come to the meeting and comment on the draft development plan voicing their concerns."

The group is being backed by Shipley MP Chris Leslie, who also wants to keep the area free from housing.

A Bradford Council spokesman said: "The area is classed as a phase two housing site which means the council wouldn't want it developed before 2009."

Opponents are urged to attend the meeting in Micklethwaite Village Hall tomorrow and the planned the march along the canal on Saturday. More details are available from Mrs Wood on (01274) 560884 or Mrs Hollins (01274) 565075.