Better Wetherby Newsletter – June 2025
Here’s a concise summary of the June 2025 Better Wetherby newsletter.
PLANNING LATEST:
Stockeld Park / Hallam Land – New Application Expected:
Hallam Land has confirmed its intention to submit a fresh outline application for 210 homes on the North Yorkshire side of Wetherby’s boundary. This is largely a repeat of the application refused in 2020 after a two‑year campaign by BW and local residents. A formal submission is expected soon. BW reiterates concerns about harm to the landscape, increased congestion and pollution, and further pressure on schools, doctors and local services.North Yorkshire ‘Call for Sites’: North Yorkshire Council’s new Local Plan has triggered significant developer interest in land immediately bordering Wetherby, raising the possibility of multiple large-scale developments in addition to the Hallam Land scheme.
Maltkiln Development – Consultation Review: North Yorkshire Council’s consultation on modifications to the 3,000+ home Maltkiln development closed on 24 March. Responses are now with the Planning Inspector, whose report will follow. BW continues close monitoring given the development’s scale and proximity.
North Yorkshire Local Plan – Have Your Say: Two consultations are open until 15 July 2025:
– Local Plan: First Conversation (priorities and issues)
– Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report
Residents can submit views via NYC’s consultation portal.
WHY IT MATTERS:
Development on the North Yorkshire side of the boundary has direct consequences for Wetherby, despite decision-making sitting outside Leeds. BW stresses the importance of staying alert to cumulative impacts from multiple proposed sites and large new settlements nearby.
COMMUNITY EVENTS:
Wetherby Festival – 3 to 11 October 2025: The autumn festival will return with a full programme. More details and ticket information will be released soon. Dates are confirmed for early October.
Drovers’ Day – Sunday 29 June: A major annual event celebrating Wetherby’s history as a cattle‑droving town. Twenty brass bands will march and perform for four hours, alongside markets and food stalls. Organised by Wetherby Lions and Wetherby Riverside Bandstand Trust.
ALSO WORTH KNOWING:
Parking Charges Update: Leeds City Council’s proposal to introduce parking charges in Wilderness and Old Station car parks remains undecided. The consultation closed on 14 March and results are still awaited.
Bus Services – X98 and X99: Transdev will cease operating these routes after 30 August 2025. WYCA is seeking a replacement operator, and BW has been reassured the service will continue. Local councillors are working to ensure frequency, reliability and affordability.
New Town Mayor: BW congratulates Councillor Connor Mulhall, appointed Town Mayor in May and the youngest to hold the position. His deputy is Councillor Stuart Newcombe.
Message from the Chair: Roger Owen notes the expected Hallam Land application, increased developer interest through the North Yorkshire call for sites, and highlights upcoming local events. BW also congratulates the new Town Mayor.
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
