The new school, if required, could be built on land off Halsteads Way. Around 130 new homes will also be built on land adjoining the school site.

Draft guidelines for the scheme have already been approved by Keighley area planning sub-committee showing how the authority expects the site to develop.

If the school is not required, then the site will be developed for housing.

The proposals have created opposition after Bradford council's school review said that there were no proposals for a new primary school in Steeton.

Speaking at Wednesday's Steeton-with Eastburn parish council meeting, which was also attended by Bradford council leader Councillor Ian Greenwood, Craven ward councillor Eric Dawson said he would like to see the land used for recreational purposes and not a new school.

He also questioned who would decide if the school is to be built.

"We have nothing in this area for young people," he said. "If we cover that land with concrete we will get nothing."

Conservative Education spokesman Dale Smith says the plans are a 'bolt out of the blue'.

"Draft proposals did not indicate a need or suggestion for a new school. It is yet another joker in the pack."

One hectare of the 6.20 hectare site has been reserved for the school. It would be located on the eastern end of the site forming a buffer between areas of existing and proposed industry and the development.

Part of the area includes a World War Two pillbox on a former ordnance factory site - which could be preserved.

Now the views of residents are being sought with the council starting an eight-week public consultation period on Wednesday, December 9.

Planning officers will be on hand to discuss the proposals with the public at an exhibition at St Stephen's Church Hall, Steeton, on December 9 from 3.30 to 8.30pm.

The draft guidelines will also be open to inspection at libaries in Keighley and Silsden and free copies will be available from planning offices at Jacobs Well, Bradford, and Keighley, Shipley and Ilkley town halls.

And copies can be requested through the post by writing to Ruth Booth, Transportation and planning service, 3rd floor, Jacobs Well, Bradford, BD1 5RW.

Anyone wishing to comment on the guidlines must write to Alan Mainwaring, Bradford council's head of transportation and planning at the same address by Thursday, February 4.

Planning boss hopes for 'action replay' see page 17

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