A compromise over the future of former playing fields in Silsden is to be discussed by Bradford Council’s Executive on Tuesday, 4 October.
The land is Elliot Street, Silsden and was one of a number of sites related to the former Silsden Primary School to be developed as part of the funding package for the new school, which opened earlier in the year. Since this decision was made more detailed planning work has been ongoing, considering the balance required between the demand for additional housing in Silsden and the retention of Public Open Space.
A compromise solution is being proposed for a more modest residential development thus allowing the majority of the Elliott St pitch to be transferred at nil cost to The Hive community centre and retained as Public Open Space for the benefit of the local community.
Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “We do need housing in Silsden and as a Council we have a statutory duty to obtain ‘Best Value’ for the taxpayer when disposing of property and land. However, we need to balance that against other factors like access to open space.
“Having considered the points raised by the community, particularly around how the playing fields are now used as Public Open Space, we believe we have found a reasonable compromise that will maximise the use of the public open space available for local residents and allow a moderate residential development to be built.”
A spokesperson for Hive said: “The Trustees of the Hive Silsden CIO are pleased with the compromise position being proposed to Bradford Council’s Executive and that it acknowledges the need for more open spaces in Silsden.
“There’s a huge strength of feeling on this issue in the community so it’s good to see the Council have listened to those concerns. Although there will be a limited housing development on the field, the rest of the land will allow us to take some of our plans forward for children’s play space, and facilities for sport and leisure, which will be of great benefit to the community in Silsden.”
