Developers Bryant Homes have promised firm action against Sandy Lane residents who have occupied one of their green field housing sites.

Fifty-two people in Sandy Lane have vowed to carry on fighting the controversial planning battle even though permission has been granted for 92 new homes by Bradford Council.

Last week they occupied part of the site and blocked off access with two caravans which they are manning on a rota basis 24 hours a day and claiming squatters rights.

Their David-and-Goliath battle with the huge development company is now hotting up with Bryant promising immediate legal action to quash the protest.

The company was unaware of the residents' protest until contacted by the Telegraph & Argus on Monday.

A company spokesman said: "We have been notified that there are two caravans on the site. These, and anybody in them, are trespassing and breaking the law.

Bryant has instructed solicitors to begin action to bring this illegal occupation to an end.

"Bryant intends to start construction as soon as this legal action is complete. Measures will be taken to minimise disruption to local residents."

The luxury housing development will cover a green field at the edge of Sandy Lane and access is via Acacia Drive and Aspen Rise - turning the two roads from a peaceful cul-de-sac to a busy thoroughfare.

Locals are furious because they do not feel Bradford Council listened to their concerns. In addition, they say, the new executive-style housing is something Sandy Lane neither needs or wants, because the homes are beyond the price-range of young people growing up in the village.

The Bryant Homes spokesman added: "The development will comprise three and four-bedroom homes, and ten three-bedroomed affordable houses which obviously Bryant is anxious to start."

Residents have claimed 'squatters rights' under Section 6 of the Criminal Law Act 1977 and a court order will be required before they can be evicted.

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