'The area has changed since 2013': Objections to more than 300 new homes in Snowhill part of Wakefield

Residents have come out fighting against plans to build more than 300 homes in their area.
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Developers are wanting to push forward with the next phases of their plans to transform the Snowhill area of Wakefield.

The Paragon Business Village and a new housing estate have already been built in the years since proposals were first given planning permission in 2013.

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That decision seven years ago means the next crop of 319 homes have already been approved in principle, but Wakefield Council still needs to sign off the fine details.

Phase one of the overall development has already been completed, having been given planning permission seven years ago.Phase one of the overall development has already been completed, having been given planning permission seven years ago.
Phase one of the overall development has already been completed, having been given planning permission seven years ago.

However, 52 objections have been submitted against the next phase, with two people supporting.

There are concerns that the roundabouts and junctions to the north of Wakefield will struggle to cope with the additional traffic, as well as the prospect of losing green space.

One objector, writing on the council's planning portal, said: "Whilst I appreciate that outline planning (permission) was granted in 2013, the area has changed considerably as a consequence of development since 2013, and as a resident of the area we have direct experience of this change and the likely effect of the proposed development.

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"No new schools, doctors, or dentists or community services have been built to accommodate these new residents.

Supporters say new homes are badly needed.Supporters say new homes are badly needed.
Supporters say new homes are badly needed.

"This is making it increasing difficult to gain access to these facilities and residents are facing longer journeys or waits to access services thus creating an impact on the local road network, public health and social integration."

Wakefield Civic Society have also come out against the plans, criticising the design of the homes and the likelihood of additional traffic on already busy junctions.

President Kevin Trickett said: "On a cul-de-sac that big, people living in the middle of the estate will be dependent on cars to get anywhere.

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"There is no obvious link for pedestrians to walk to get public transport."

"When the original application was put in we did say the council needed to do a masterplan for the whole area, but they never did one.

"Now traffic levels have completely changed."

One resident offered a different view on the plans, however, writing: "This development has been known about for a long time.

"Those who have purchased properties on other recent developments and now trying to object to this development should have already been aware of this.

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"New affordable homes are desperately needed in Wakefield and this development can provide many of them. The current and proposed roads can easily handle the traffic."

A final decision on the plans will be made next year.

Local Democracy Reporting Service