THE fences have gone up at a Huddersfield beauty spot.
And it means many local people have been denied access by developers at Clayton Fields – despite an ongoing legal dispute.
The fields, which have been used by residents for generations, were barricaded out of public use yesterday with 6ft-high metal fences emblazoned with Keep Out signs erected by developers Paddico 267 Ltd.
The move has caused anger and dismay.
Many families use the land as a play area and for sledging in winter..
And a local nursery was planning to have a cricket day there on Monday but has now been forced to switch it to Lindley recreation ground.
The latest move over the land between Birkby and Edgerton has caused an outcry in the local community after a decade-long planning dispute.
But despite the major blow, Clayton Fields Action Group say “the cheap move” by developers has further cemented their determination to continue the fight.
As reported, Paddico 267 Ltd won a High Court battle in June which removed village green status which had safeguarded the site against development.
Clayton Fields Action Group secretary, Mike Hardy said: “It is the developers’ land but there is an appeal pending.
“Furthermore if we do win the appeal, it will cost more to remove all the fences and any work they has been done cannot be reversed, therefore devaluing the site and adding weight to subsequent planning to build houses.
“He thought we were a pushover and it is just a cheap trick. He had no idea the depth of feeling about Clayton Fields.
“We believe this is getting overheated and they are desperate to start work.
“We are currently consulting with our legal team to work with Paddico’s legal team to get the appeal heard as soon as possible.”
Developers moved in onsite at the start of the week and claim they are legally entitled to begin building for 55 houses – despite planning permission being granted back in 1967.
Kirklees Council said ‘in all likelihood’ the 1967 planning application is valid.
The action group has been historically backed by MP Barry Sheerman and Clr Mehboob Khan.
Paddico chairman John Lund told The Examiner earlier this week he was planning to start work within six weeks despite local opposition.
And he vowed to take action against people who trespassed on the land.