Better Wetherby Newsletter – August 2025
Here’s a concise summary of the August 2025 Better Wetherby newsletter.
PLANNING LATEST:
Stockeld Park / Hallam Land – 210 Homes:
The application received 360 comments, with 357 (≈99%) being objections, signalling overwhelming public opposition. Although the deadline has passed, BW encourages continued submissions quoting ref 25/02006/OUTMAJ. A decision by North Yorkshire Council is expected around 11 September 2025.Leeds Local Plan 2022–2042 Consultation: Public consultation runs until 15 September 2025. BW urges residents to review site proposals and submit views, as developers have expressed significant interest across the Outer North East area. Several sites near Wetherby are highlighted as priorities for scrutiny, including:
– LPS00313 (Crossley Street area: 26 homes)
– LPS00369 (Kings Meadow View: 127 homes)
– LPS00295 (Swinnow Park: 593 homes)
– LPS00181 (off Walton Road: 1,757 homes)
Residents are encouraged to check for errors in Leeds’ ‘desk-based’ site assessments.
WHY IT MATTERS:
Large-scale development pressures continue on both sides of the Leeds / North Yorkshire boundary. BW stresses that residents’ voices directly influence planning decisions, especially during statutory consultations.
COMMUNITY EVENTS:
Harrogate Town AFC / Wetherby Racecourse Training Facility: BW attended the July drop-in event reviewing plans for new community‑accessible football training facilities. Subject to a sound planning application, BW would support the scheme, which aims to benefit local young players and wider community groups.
ALSO WORTH KNOWING:
Parking Charges – From 1 October 2025: Leeds City Council will introduce parking charges at Wilderness and Old Station car parks despite strong local opposition.
Support for Better Wetherby: BW continues to operate as an independent, non-political, volunteer-led partnership. They highlight current volunteer needs including admin, social media, mapping, photography and general planning support. Every hour helps the team focus on core planning challenges.
Message from the Chair: Peter Swales thanks residents for submitting objections to the Stockeld Park application and urges participation in the Leeds Local Plan consultation. He also invites new volunteers to support BW’s increasing workload.
Secretary Update: BW thanks outgoing Secretary Jacquie Clarke for her contributions since 2024.
GO DEEPER:
Want all the details, links, and updates? Download the full newsletter here.
You’ll find:
Full context on local developments
BW’s official submissions and responses
Event details and how to get involved
Contact info and ways to support
