Aireborough residents deserve a better deal from developers hoping to build 29 houses in the area, city councillors have claimed.

At this week's Development Control Panel West meeting, councillors said that Hearthstead Homes' plans at Crofters Lea in Yeadon did not contribute enough to the community.

Concerns were raised about the lack of green space on the site, the lack of affordable housing and the lack of a footpath.

Committee chairman Councillor Malcolm Bedford (Lab, Wortley) said: "Planning officers need to go back to the developers and try to get a better deal for residents in the area."

In a letter to the Wharfedale Observer before the meeting, Yeadon resident Rosemary Prince claimed the wishes of local people are being ignored by both planners and housing devel

opers and has objected to the plans.

Mrs Prince said: "These proposals are illogical, irresponsible and fundamentally wrong. Any development on this land would be bad for the community. The rape of Aireborough is continuing, despite the wishes of the people."

She said that there are too many houses in the area, utilities are stretched to capacity and there are not enough places in schools for existing children. She claimed the area is green belt land and for recreational use.

The plans are likely to be considered again next month.

l Leeds City Council will fight plans for a part single and part two storey side extension at 23 Whiteley Croft Rise, Otley at a public inquiry after the applicant appealed against the length of time the council was taking to decide the application. The council claims the extension would reduce parking facilities and be detrimental to the character and appearance of the estate.

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