Steeton and Eastburn councillors have voiced major concerns about the proposed development of 150 new houses in the area.

Councillors believe the proposed housing development next to the Airedale General, will put a massive strain on existing services in Eastburn, and have a negative affect on community spirit.

They argue that the 150 houses earmarked for development under Bradford council's Unitary Development Plan (UDP), will put an immediate strain on services such as health and education.

There are currently around 350 properties in Eastburn, and the proposed development would effectively increase that number by half.

Councillor Margaret Moorhouse (pictured above) says: "We are all disturbed that this kind of planning is going on in because there just aren't enough services to back it up."

She cites the example of the sewage system in the village, which councillors argue has been overloaded for the last 20 years.

With the housing sure to attract young families, there is also the worry that small local schools will become full to bursting point.

Councillors are now urging apathetic locals to become more invloved in the development, before it is too late.

Only two members of the public turned up to the Steeton and Eastburn parish meeting on Wednesday.

Councillor Margaret Moorhouse says: "It seems to me that there is an acceptance that the development is inevitable. It is up to local people to pull their fingers out."

Parish councillors have suggested getting a petition as a way of mobilising local support.

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