New housing plan for the former chemical works

Plans to build 298 homes next to a former chemical factory in Knottingley look set to be approved.

Persimmon Homes has applied to build a number of properties on land off Common Lane, next to the old Oxiris factory.

Wakefield Council received more than 130 objections to the scheme and a petition was signed by more than 500 people.

Concerns have been raised about the loss of green space and wildlife habitats.

Others say local infrastructure, including schools and healthcare facilities, will be strained by the development, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Thirteen house types, including two, three and four-bedroom homes, are proposed in a scheme that would also include public open space.

The proposal includes a new access road and entrance to the site, along with a number of “village green style” areas and a central park.

‘High standard’

The original site plans were changed to protect an area inhabited by great newts.

If the scheme is approved, the developer will likely have to make section 106 financial contributions to improve transport links in the area.

Section 106 agreements are paid by developers when they build homes to help fund local infrastructure.

Network Rail has asked for £50,000 to upgrade a nearby level crossing.

Planning officers, who recommended councilors approve the scheme, said it would “result in a high standard housing environment”.

The council’s planning and highways committee will consider the proposal at a meeting on Thursday.

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