Town's neighbourhood plan adopted after referendum

A plan aimed at shaping the future development of Bingley has been officially adopted after local residents supported its findings in a referendum.

The Bingley Neighbourhood Development Plan sets out a vision for the town and its surrounding villages up to 2038, and covers housing, green spaces and town centre improvements.

Bradford Council said it would use the plan, which was supported by over 85% of those who took part in a referendum on 16 July, when making decisions on planning applications in the area.

Bingley councillor Philippa Gibbons said it was a "long-term framework for balancing development, environmental protection, economic vitality and community wellbeing".

Gibbons, who chairs the Neighbourhood Development Plan group, added that she was "delighted" people in Bingley had voted for the plan.

The plan sets out a vision of the future for the Bingley area, along with six objectives and 12 planning policies designed to help achieve it.

Those policies cover a range of different topics, including protecting community facilities, enhancing Bingley's landscape and heritage and walking, cycling and green infrastructure.

Neighbourhood planning originated in the government's Localism Act 2011 which gave local communities opportunities to shape how their areas grew and developed.

The Neighbourhood Development Plans are led by the community, usually town or parish councils, or designated neighbourhood forums in non-parished areas.

Councillor Andrew Judson, executive member for economy regeneration and planning at Bradford Council, said: "The adoption of the Bingley Neighbourhood Development Plan is a significant milestone and, as the chair of the Keighley Neighbourhood Development Plan Group, I fully understand the hard work, dedication and commitment of everyone involved in its preparation.

"The strong support shown in the referendum demonstrates that local people care deeply about Bingley and want to play an active role in shaping its future development."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.