Slaithwaite housing plan hits web

May 30 2009 By Andrew Brook

Mr Newton-Howes said: "We have invited all candidates for upcoming elections to join the group and give their views, so we know where we stand irrespective of our normal views.

"We are non-political, but our aim is to advise people to vote for the candidate who has the clearest idea how to oppose the plans.

"The country is in such a pickle that it makes little difference in national terms who we vote for, but this is a huge local issue which will decide who we support."

The LDF comes from a Government initiative designed to boost commerce and industry in the region by building new homes and using about 250 hectares of land for new jobs.

Once introduced the framework will affect how all planning applications and proposed developments are treated.

Mr Newton-Howes said: "Obviously the European elections on June 4 are our upcoming priority, but as these plans will have such a lasting impact on the village we will continue after that."

Kirklees Council is due to announce later this year which of its plans will get the go-ahead.

Information on the four options is available at libraries, town halls and information centres as well as on www.kirklees.gov.uk/localdevelopment