Plans to transform an eyesore site have been backed by councillors.

They backed plans for ‘affordable’ housing for the former Soothill Cricket Club in Soothill Lane, Batley.

The application for 34 houses and four apartments was referred to yesterday’s Planning and Highways Committee as it was a departure from policy.

Committee chairman Clr Christine Smith, Kirkburton Conservative, said: “It’s been a long, long time since we had 100% affordable housing come our way, it’s excellent news.”

The former cricket field has been derelict for around a decade and is in a state of neglect.

Clr Eric Firth, Dewsbury East Labour councillor, said he once played cricket on the pitch and added: “It’s been derelict and rundown for a long time and it’s become a dumping ground.

“I think it’s an excellent use and a great scheme.”

Although it means the loss of green space, Kirklees planners say the housing boost outweighs the potential loss.

It was approved with delegation to officers to ensure all the housing remains ‘affordable.’

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