A NEW MoT testing bay at an Ilkley garage will lead to less traffic clogging up the busy conservation area, not more, a public inquiry heard yesterday.

Glovers Garage wants to expand its garage and move the MOT testing facility from Bolton Bridge Road to the Bridge Lane garage where repairs are carried out.

But the expansion of the Bridge Lane garage was blocked by Bradford planners last year, prompting the company to appeal.

At Ilkley Town Hall, Paul Bourgeois, Glovers managing director, told Department of the Environment inspector Robert Maxwell that the expansion plan would have positive environmental benefits for the town.

He said at present mechanics had to drive vehicles between the two sites for MOT testing and repairs.

"In business terms it will be an improvement apart from the obvious environmental benefits," said Mr Bourgeois.

Mr Maxwell told the hearing that the planning applications was turned down by Bradford Council for three main reasons.

Firstly, its visual effect on the nearby Roman Fort, Manor House and listed buildings in the area. Secondly, its impact on the Conservation Area, and thirdly the expected increase in traffic congestion arising from parking arrangements.

Bridge Lane residents have also opposed the plan and they were represented at the appeal by Jenny Oldfield.

Mr Maxwell said: "The appellant's case is that the proposal is required to run the business more efficiently and improve facilities for staff."

Supporting the appeal, Ilkley District Councillor Martin Smith (Con) attended the inquiry to submit his own statement.

"The proposals show a large increase in space but this is well screened by adjoining buildings from the Manor House. The rationalisation will mean less traffic between Glovers two sites in the locality and the A65," says Coun Smith.

He adds: "On balance, and with my own researches, I feel the proposal should be supported."

When the plan was originally submitted, Bridge Lane residents stated that the expansion plan would lead to an unacceptable level of traffic on Bridge Lane and Castle Hill, prevent emergency vehicles from getting up to the Manor House, blight the view of several listed buildings and create extra noise.

As well as rationalising their operation, Glovers want to improve the facilities for mechanics and other staff at the site, giving them more room to operate high-tech diagnostic equipment when carrying out inspections and repairs to cars.

Mr Maxwell told the inquiry that he had walked around the site and the nearby area, but he wanted to make another visit when the one-day inquiry had concluded.

He will be announcing his decision whether to allow the appeal in the next few weeks.

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