Could 475 houses be built in Knottingley?

Developer Warmfield FeryBridge Ltd has been granted planning permission for the development off Pontefract Road.

It could include up to 475 new homes, ranging from one bed properties to those with four bedrooms.

The development would also feature commercial space which could be used as a pub restaurant and a small shop, and land for educational provision including room for the a new or expanded primary school.

There would also be two areas of open space for public use.

The application forms the second phase of a housing estate on the edge of the town.

Gleeson Development Ltd is in the process of building 176 houses on land next to Rainsborough Avenue, after securing planning approval in 2014.

Matthew Sheppard of Turley Associates, the agents to Warmfield and Gleeson, said: “We’re very pleased to have received this planning permission.

“The plan will help to deliver much needed new housing for the town and will also make a significant contribution to enhancing school provision in the area.

“This approval will allow the developer to continue providing good quality homes for people wanting to live in this area.

“Following positive early discussions with Wakefield Council, we expect to submit a further application in the near future, which will detail the next phase of development.”

Twenty-five objections were lodged against the proposals.

Concerns raised included congestion and road safety and noise pollution.

The application site is greenfield land to the South West of Knottingley, close to the M62 motorway.

The land has already been allocated for housing.