Village 'destroyed by over-development' - resident

Villagers have raised concerns that their community was being "over-developed" after housing plans were submitted.

Orion Homes is seeking to build 23 new homes in Birkenshaw, combining two previously approved developments. They would share an access road from Whitehall Road West.

One objector said traffic was "ridiculously busy as it is", adding: "Birkenshaw village is being destroyed by over-development."

Orion said the development would boost contributions to the Kirklees economy and create a “high-quality residential environment".

The development started life as two separate applications to Kirklees Council.

In 2022, plans were approved to bring 10 houses to the plot, and in 2019 an application for 13 homes was given the green light.

Orion has now submitted plans to combine the projects, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The objector said they were concerned over a "loss of habitat for wildlife – the site has already been cleared with scant regard for the wildlife".

Another raised concerns over the volume of traffic around Whitehall Road West.

They said: “Now the land behind the Heathfield Farm pub has undergone significant development and the land formerly owned by Blue Hills Farm is undergoing a significant development, it would appear incongruous to allow this exit point on to the main road.”

Orion Homes said: “A prime residential development can help to create homes for the region and attract new families to the area.

"The final detailed site layout plan incorporates 23 well-designed, high-quality dwellings that are accessible from a sole point of access off Whitehall Road West.

“The proposals will help to provide much-needed housing to the area, bringing with it several social and economic benefits."

A decision on the plans is expected by 11 November.

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