SAVE the character of Menston - that is the call from local councillors concerned about the imminent sale and uncertain future of the High Royds Hospital site.

As revealed by Wharfedale Newpapers last week, the hospital site is to be put up for sale shortly - and that has led to concern that houses must not be built on the multi-million pound 195 acre site, which includes Grade II Listed Victorian buildings.

The secretary of state will put the land up for sale either as a whole or in sections.

But Councillor Chris Greaves (Cons, Rombalds) said that a housing development could destroy Menston's character as well as savage the Green Belt in the area.

"Whatever happens to that site, we must preserve the character and integrity of the village. We mustn't be allowed to become part of the urban sprawl and lose our character," he said.

He added that if houses were built on the site, it would place a tremendous strain on facilities in the village, such as successful Menston Primary School.

"I fear that Leeds City Council could give the go-ahead for a housing development.

"Because Menston is on the border with Bradford, all the village services are run by Bradford Council - that means Leeds collects the cash and Bradford will end up paying for all the services.

"All I ask to start with is that the village and its councillors are kept properly informed of developments and that we are properly consulted."

He also expressed concern about the future of the social club at the hospital, which is also used by the community as well as hospital workers.

Leeds City Councillor Graham Kirkland (Lib Dem, Otley and Wharfedale) said that a commercial development such as a supermarket, would be 'bad news' because of an increase in traffic. Housing was also an unfavourable option.

"It would be unacceptable to build houses. You could get a town the size of Otley on that site," he added.

Coun Kirkland added that because part of the hospital building was listed, it would be interesting to see what developers will come up with, although he favoured a golf course.

"Traffic between the Harry Ramsden's roundabout and Ellar Ghyll is already the worst in the district, and you couldn't add to it."

l Graham Hoult, lay member for the Leeds North West Primary Care Group, said it presented an exciting opportunity for Menston but he added that he did not rule out part of the land being used for a new Wharfedale Hospital if the preferred site in Otley next to Garnett's Mill fell through.

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