Families in Cleckheaton are up in arms over plans to build a new factory in their street because of fears about increased traffic congestion and noise.

Residents in Farfield Street say they already have to put up with a stream of ten-tonne articulated lorries in their narrow cul-de-sac and the sound of noisy machinery at unsociable hours of the day.

And some householders say they are afraid to let their children play out in the street because they are worried about them being knocked down by the wagons.

The residents have the backing of Councillor Kath Pinnock (Lib Dem, Cleckheaton) who has written a letter of objection on their behalf to the Council and wants councillors to make a site visit before making a decision.

But the company, Cash Register Rolls UK, argues the new building will cut traffic and noise and at the same time stop fly tipping on the site which has also angered residents. The managing director has also warned he is prepared to relocate the factory to Leeds if planning permission is not granted.

The firm has applied for permission to Kirklees Council to build a new 5,800sq ft manufacturing unit at a cost of £180,000 on derelict land next to its existing premises in Farfield Street.

The scheme, which includes a 12-space car park and putting a turning circle at the end of the street, will mean demolishing the existing factory which is half the size.

The company, which has an annual turnover of £1 million, employs 15 workers and has been based there for 20 years.

On Friday the Council's heavy woollen area planning committee is being recommended to approve the application subject to the firm agreeing to certain conditions.

These are that the company gives more details about reducing noise levels and off-street parking and does not use the new building until the turning area and car park have been provided.

Resident Richard Smith, 29, said: "Wagons go up and down the street all the time and some have gone into walls, gates and cars parked in the street as they try to reverse out."

Neighbour Andrew Rouse, 34, said: "Sometimes we can't get out because the lorries block the road."

Mother-of-two Nicola Henry, 24, added: "My children want to ride their bikes in the street but I daren't let them." Managing director Clyde Deluca said: "There will be fewer vehicles because we will have more room for storage in the new factory. One lorry will be able to deliver a month's supply of products.

"We are also going to have double cladding and insulation in the roof to cut down the noise and I am providing a turning circle at my own expense.

"I have told the Council I am prepared to close the factory - which will put 15 people out of work - and move to Leeds if planning permission is not given. We are simply trying to make a living."

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