Plans to build an office on Green Belt land in the picturesque village of Harden have been attacked.

The ICR Group, which claims to be the biggest employer in the village, wants to add 49 jobs to its current 26.

It provides cutting edge services to support call centre and e-commerce activities throughout Yorkshire and the UK.

But its proposals for a two-storey office block and up to 73 parking spaces on land next to Harden Cricket Club has caused deep divisions in the community. Councillor Robin Owens (Con, Bingley) said: "I think it's a monstrosity - 1,000 square metres on Green Belt at the main entrance to the village.

"There's a lot of empty office space in Keighley, five minutes over the hill. I don't see why that can't be utilised.''

His concerns were echoed by Councillor Colin Gill (Con, Bingley) who said: "Although I am aware of this scheme I have not yet seen detailed plans. However, I am concerned about building in Green Belt and a scheme which could increase traffic through Harden.

"Obviously I am interested in supporting employment in Harden but perhaps there are other alternatives.''

Stuart Graves, 54, and his partner Caroline Broadley, 48, live opposite the proposed development at Cock Croft Fold and intend to start a petition.

She said: "I have lived in Harden for over 20 years and I was horrified to hear about it. We are worried about the effect on the environment - 28 trees are due to be lopped down. It will spoil Harden as a village.''

No-one from the company wanted to comment but a letter from it to the Shipley Area Planning Office said: "Most employees are local and the company has no desire to relocate too far. Having extensively considered local opportunities there are no appropriate facilities any closer than Skipton or Leeds.

"These unfortunately are our only serious options as we seek to increase from 26 to 75 employees.''

Mark Falkingham, treasurer of Harden Cricket Club, sponsored by ICR for the last three years, said: "They have our full backing.''

The application, which would include planting new trees, will be discussed at a meeting of Harden Village Society at the Memorial Hall on Thursday March 16 at 7.30pm.

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