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Leeds ARTICLES

Local Councillors in Uproar over Eco-friendly Town

01st May 2008

Leeds local councillors have made it very clear that they are not happy about the proposed plans for an eco-friendly town.

The plans were revealed in a 72- page document that came into the public domain at the end of April 2008.

The proposals include building 9,000 carbon neutral homes across an 800-acre site and the development of land around the Oulton Hall.

The two private companies also propose to triple the size of the village Carlton and double the size of Oulton.

In addition to plans are the introduction of six new primary and secondary schools and a new dual carriageway to replace the A642 Leeds-Wakefield Road.

On top of that is the proposal for a new three-acre cemetery, allotments and an urban farm.

Councillor Golton said, ‘These plans would irreversibly change the character of our communities, and the developers should not be complacent about the level of opposition they would face.’

He goes on further, ‘Eco-town or not, it still amounts to tonnes of tarmac, concrete, bricks and mortar being laid on our green belt, and hundreds more cars on our roads. It would destroy the character of where we live, and the reaction of the residents will reflect this.’

A spokesperson for the Leeds City Region Partnership said that they support the principle for an eco-town, as we are facing both a housing shortage and climate changes.

Micklefield, between Eggborough and Kellington near Selby and Darrington near Pontefract have already been ruled out of the plans.

Council leader Andrew Carter said, ‘There has been no consultation whatever with Leeds. I don’t think it has a cat in hell’s chance of getting planning approval.

‘The scheme is hugely over-intensive and is not necessary. It would mean the loss of green spaces and green fields.’

SOURCE:
Yorkshire Evening Post