The Strategic Planning Committee of Kirklees Council met on Thursday, 20 June 2024, to discuss several key planning applications and policy updates. Decisions were made on various development proposals, including the approval of a new housing project and the rejection of a commercial development plan.

Housing Development Proposal: Application 2023-93449

The committee approved the housing development proposal 2023-93449, which involves the construction of 150 new homes in Huddersfield. The development will include a mix of affordable housing and market-rate units.

Councillors discussed the need for more affordable housing in the area and the potential benefits to the local community. One councillor noted, This development will provide much-needed affordable housing and help address the housing shortage in Huddersfield. Concerns were raised about the impact on local infrastructure, but the committee concluded that the benefits outweighed the potential drawbacks.

Commercial Development Plan: Application 2023-92191

The committee rejected the commercial development plan 2023-92191, which proposed the construction of a new shopping centre in Dewsbury. The decision was based on concerns about traffic congestion and the potential negative impact on existing local businesses.

A councillor argued, The proposed shopping centre would exacerbate traffic issues and could harm small businesses in Dewsbury. Despite some support for the economic benefits the development might bring, the majority of the committee voted against the proposal.

Policy Updates and Planning Documents

The committee reviewed and updated several planning documents, including the Planning Update Document and the Strategic Planning Committee Update. These updates included revisions to local planning policies to better align with the council's long-term development goals.

Other Planning Applications

Several other planning applications were discussed, including 2022-91477 and 2024-20252. These applications involved smaller-scale developments, such as residential extensions and minor commercial projects. The committee made decisions on each application based on their compliance with local planning regulations and their potential impact on the community.

Lobbying Transparency

The committee also addressed the issue of lobbying transparency, referring to the document LOBBYING do not removed Insert at appropriate item. The discussion focused on ensuring that all lobbying activities related to planning applications are transparent and properly documented. This move aims to enhance public trust in the planning process and ensure that decisions are made fairly and openly.