After almost a decade of hard work, two community-led neighbourhood plans have come into force in Ilkley and Oxenhope.
In June, Bradford Council formally adopted the neighbourhood development plans which will now guide local growth and development in the areas.
The confirmation follows nine years of hard work and dedication by local residents, councillors and the council’s planning officers.
Work began on the neighbourhood development plans in 2013 for Ilkley and 2014 for Oxenhope.
The plans went through a number of stages required by the government including community consultation, engagement and independent examination to ensure they met the government’s planning conditions and legal requirements.
In referendums held in May this year, the Ilkley plan received 82.7% of the vote, whilst the Oxenhope plan achieved 82.3% of all votes.
The plans will now form part of Bradford Council’s overall planning policy and will guide planning officers and committees in reaching local development decisions.
Developers will use the documents to guide their planning proposals.
Neighbourhood planning was brought in by the government’s Localism Act to give local communities a greater say in how their areas grow and develop.
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “Congratulations to all those who have put in almost a decade of hard work to help shape the future development of Ilkley and Oxenhope.
“These Neighbourhood Development Plans represent a significant step forward in local democracy and will assist planning committees to make decisions which reflect people’s views on how their local areas should be developed and protected.”
Ilkley Town Mayor, Councillor Mark Stidworthy, said: “I am delighted the Ilkley Neighbourhood Development Plan has now been formally adopted by Bradford Council.
“It will be given full weight in determining planning applications within the Ilkley neighbourhood area.
“I would like to thank the many people who were part of the working group that undertook the research and consultation with residents, and provided the local expertise that underpins the plan.
“The views of local people on development in our own town are clearly expressed in the plan and we hope that it will have a positive impact well into the future.”
Ilkley Town Councillor and Ilkley Neighbourhood Development Plan Chair, Ros Brown, said: “The adoption of the new plan will increase the Town Council funds available to support and sustain our community through a rise in the Community Infrastructure Levy.
“After nearly ten years of preparation this is a significant moment and it’s great to see the working group’s efforts come to fruition.”
Councillor Ken Eastwood, Chair of Oxenhope Village Council, said: “The Neighbourhood Development Plan seeks to ensure sustainable development within Oxenhope, meeting the needs of current and future generations, whilst protecting and enhancing the natural, built and historic environment.
“The plan was developed by the village council over several years with extensive input by residents of Oxenhope. Its policies reflect local views, shaped through consultations and detailed discussions.”
The new plans can be viewed at www.bradford.gov.uk/planning
Paper versions can also be viewed at the locations below, during normal opening hours:
• Bradford Council Customer Service Centre, Britannia House, Broadway, Bradford, BD1 1HX
• City Library, Centenary Square, Bradford, BD1 1SD
• Ilkley Library, Station Road, Ilkley, LS29 8HA [Ilkley Plan only]
• Ilkley Town Council Office, Ilkley Town Hall, Station Road, Ilkley, LS29 8HB (Telephone 01943 436212 or email enquiries@towncouncil.ilkley.org) [Ilkley Plan only]
• Clarke Foley Community Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley, LS29 9DZ [Ilkley Plan only]
• Ilkley Visitor Information Centre, Ilkley Library, Station Road, Ilkley, LS29 8HB [Ilkley Plan only]
• Keighley Town Hall, Bow Street, Keighley, BD21 3PA [Oxenhope Plan only]
• Keighley Library (Local Studies Section), North Street, Keighley, BD21 3SX (Oxenhope Plan only]
Skipton event planned for private landlords
World-class tennis returns with Ilkley Trophy
Exploring Ilkley Moor: Free guided walks and educational events
Young BGT magician includes Ilkley in tour
Ilkley's newly elected Deputy and Town Mayor
Company behind Skipton food and drink festival ceases trading
Residents spring into action for a fairer deal for Ilkley District
District's first average speed cameras installed on A650
Group that helps people connect with nature to get new home in park building
What are the top priorities for Ilkley? Share your thoughts in the community consultation
Nick Hancock returns to breakfast radio in Skipton and Ilkley
Silsden store supports local NHS Charity at fashion show fundraiser
Leading environmentalist tells Ilkley to get real about climate crisis
Local Pride groups receive new patron
Outside the Box hosts ‘Thank You’ EP launch
Silsden quarry blocked after Planning Inspector rejects appeal
Friends of Ilkley Railway Station share results of public consultation
Grade II listed structure at Keighley station needs urgent repairs
The Hive to host Silsden community fun day
18 local businesses compete in 5-a-side event
