BW Newsletter – December 2025
Here’s a concise summary of the November 2025 Better Wetherby newsletter.
PLANNING LATEST:
Sicklinghall Road – Miller Homes: Developer consultation held on 11 November outlining plans for up to 100 new homes on green belt land owned by Stockeld Park. A formal planning application is expected early 2026. Decisions will sit with North Yorkshire Council, not Leeds.
Harrogate Road (Spofforth Hill) – 210 Houses: Hallam Land’s application for 210 homes, almost identical to one rejected in 2019, remains awaiting a planning committee date. It attracted hundreds of objections.
Maltkiln New Settlement – Plan Adopted: The 3,000‑home Maltkiln settlement near Cattal has now had its Development Plan Document formally adopted by NYC (12 November 2025) following government examination. Further detailed planning and community consultation will follow.
WHY IT MATTERS:
Wetherby continues to face major development pressures, with decisions increasingly made by North Yorkshire Council despite the direct impact on Wetherby’s infrastructure. Engagement from residents shapes how the town evolves.
COMMUNITY MATTERS:
• Road Safety Action: A deputation of Wetherby residents (including a BW representative) addressed Leeds City Council on 12 November, urging urgent action on dangerous roads, especially around Crossley Street Primary School and key streets in the town centre. Issues are now with the Chief Officer for Highways and Transportation.
Next Highways and Road Safety Group meeting: Tuesday 3 February 2026, 5.30pm, Methodist Church – open to all residents.
COMMUNITY EVENTS:
Dickensian Christmas Market – Sunday 14 December: Running 9am–3pm, with indoor and outdoor stalls, music, food and Santa. Better Wetherby will have a display in the Shambles.
ALSO WORTH KNOWING:
Message from the Chair: Peter Swales reflects on a busy year of planning engagement and community support. This is his final newsletter as Chair after eight years helping to establish and lead BW. Volunteers have stepped up this year, and preparations for 2026 are already underway.
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
