Kirklees can adopt Local Plan, say inspectors

Kirklees Council has been told it can proceed towards adoption of the Local Plan.

An independent examination by the Planning Inspectorate has concluded that with the recommended modifications the plan is sound and legally compliant.

Its adoption will be considered by councillors at an extraordinary Council meeting on Wednesday, February 27, 2019. 

Details regarding the meeting will be published on the council’s website in due course. Meanwhile, the Inspector’s report can be viewed here.

David Wyles, chairman of Huddersfield Civic Society says: "After so many delays the approval of the Local Plan now appears inevitable.

"Since the 1960s, successive strategic plans have resulted in the creep of suburbia, loss of some of our precious green spaces with minimal impact on the provision of affordable homes, issues of sustainability and reduction of vehicular traffic. 

"In commenting on the draft plan HCS highlighted the fact that no specific provision had been made for housing in and around Huddersfield town centre. 

"While the plan's approval seems a fait accompli it is hoped that attention will be paid to the considerable opportunities for all types of residential provision, that provide more choice, sustainability and higher densities on such sites  as around the former sports centre, riverside and swathes of semi derelict brownfield land and vacant property. 

"Huddersfield, we believe, should follow the example being set by larger cities and reverse the derogatory image of the 'inner city' and bring back life and vitality to our town centre. 

It is in the hands of Kirklees  in partnership with the private sector to drive this opportunity forward."

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