Burley-in-Wharfedale MP Chris Leslie has backed campaigners determined to preserve a popular village beauty spot.

Burley Community Council is determined to secure a portion of Burley House Field for future

generations to enjoy.

Under Bradford's Unitary Development Plan (UDP) part of the field, adjoining Bradford Road, is recommended for recreational use. The other section is earmarked for possible future housing.

The community council is determined to shut the door on any possibility of the recreation 'recommendation' being overturned.

Community council committee members are trying to have the land registered as a village green. This is possible if they can show evidence of villagers using the land for 'lawful sports and

pastimes' since the council took control of the land.

John Gundry, vice chairman of the community council, produced a questionnaire, asking villagers to describe just how they had enjoyed or made use of Burley House Field since 1974.

The plan has won the firm approval of the village M,. Chris Leslie. He said: "I fully support the community council in its bid to secure this piece of land as village green."

"I have spoken to several people in Burley-in-Wharfedale about this issue and I know they value Burley House Field very highly," he said.

Mr Leslie hoped Bradford Council would consider the community council's request very seriously indeed.

Mr Gundry said he welcomed Mr Leslie's support and revealed the community council was very close to submitting its official request.

More than 100 questionnaires were returned to Mr Gundry, for which he is very grateful, but he is still keen to obtain further

photographic evidence.

"Actual pictures showing people enjoying Burley House Field would be extremely useful and strong pieces of evidence," he said.

It is likely the issue will be decided by an independent adjudicator, with a recommendation being made to the council.

Anyone able to provide Mr Gundry with further photographic evidence can contact him on (01943) 863141.

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