Better Wetherby Newsletter – March 2025
Here’s a concise summary of the March 2025 Better Wetherby newsletter.
PLANNING LATEST:
Stockeld Park / Hallam Land – New Application Imminent: Hallam Land has announced plans to submit a new outline application for 210 homes, on the same North Yorkshire site previously refused in 2020 after a Public Inquiry. A public consultation was held on 3 March, followed by a presentation to Wetherby Town Council the same day. An application is expected late spring. BW emphasises the development would harm the landscape, worsen congestion and pollution, and add major pressure to schools, GPs and local services.
North Yorkshire ‘Call for Sites’: NYC’s Local Plan process has attracted strong developer interest in land north of Wetherby, particularly around Kirk Deighton and between Wetherby and Spofforth. BW warns these early‑stage proposals could significantly impact the town if progressed.
Maltkiln Development Consultation – Deadline 24 March: NYC is consulting on modifications to the 3,000‑home Maltkiln New Settlement DPD. Despite its proximity and likely impact on Wetherby, BW has been excluded from formal discussions. Residents are encouraged to read and respond via the consultation portal.
North Yorkshire Local Plan – Give Your Views: NYC is seeking feedback (until 15 July) on two documents:
– Local Plan: First Conversation
– Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report
Both relate directly to development pressures around Wetherby.
WHY IT MATTERS:
Wetherby has already seen substantial growth: 1,000 homes built in the last decade and another 1,000 underway at Racecourse Approach. BW stresses the town cannot absorb further major boundary‑site developments without worsening traffic, infrastructure strain and environmental impacts.
COMMUNITY EVENTS:
Spofforth Park Talk – 10 March: Wetherby Civic Society AGM followed by a talk on “Spofforth Park: Community Power and the Estate’s Evolution” at St James’ Church Centre, 7.30pm.
Biodiversity Talk – 27 March: Professor Alastair Fitter (Yorkshire Wildlife Trust) will speak to Wetherby U3A on biodiversity at St James’ Church Hall, 2pm. Entry £3 including a donation to YWT.
ALSO WORTH KNOWING:
Parking Charges Consultation – Ends 14 March: Leeds City Council’s proposal to introduce charges at Wilderness and Old Station car parks continues despite strong opposition. BW warns the changes would harm local businesses and push more cars into residential streets. Objections must be submitted by 14 March.
20mph Speed Limit Extensions: Complaints continue about drivers ignoring the expanded 20mph limits on Linton Road, Walton Road and Boston Road. Enforcement is underway. Monthly Highways Group meetings remain open to the public.
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
