PLANS to build almost 500 new homes in Darfield are set to be submitted to the council in the coming weeks - and residents have been urged to have their say.
On Saturday, many locals were shocked to see a leaflet posted through their doors from Keepmoat and Saul Homes which stated that a total of 467 homes - 267 of which will be built on one plot of land and a further 200 on a second - are in the pipeline.
The properties would be built south of Doncaster Road - an area of field which is currently used by dog walkers and residents alike.
The first phase of the plan for 267 homes will be overseen by Keepmoat and Saul Homes who are in the process of seeking full planning permission.
This would include areas of open space and will also include the area to the south of phase two - with an outline planning application set to be pushed forward - for a drainage basin.
However Coun Kevin Osborne, who represents the Darfield ward, was shocked to find none of the three councillors in the area - along with Couns Pauline Markham and Trevor Smith - had been contacted prior to the leaflets being sent out.
He told the Chronicle: “It was clearly disappointing to learn of the planned development and consultation event second-hand.
“I engaged direct with the developer and they will now formally update Darfield elected representatives in advance of the planned consultation event.
“The views and concerns of Darfield residents will always come first.”
He wrote to JRP Associates, the firms’ PR firm, to ask them why they did not speak with local councillors.
They have since apologised.
Managing director Vikki Sykes said: “The development team had every intention on engaging with yourself, Coun Markham and Coun Smith prior to the distribution of the leaflets to the wider community.
“Unfortunately, the leaflets have been released by a third-party distribution company prematurely and ahead of schedule and this is deeply regrettable.
“We do understand the importance of liaising with yourselves as the elected community representatives and we would very much welcome the opportunity to rectify this unfortunate turn of events.”
A consultation event is due to take place at the Strawbridges Garden Centre, on Doncaster Road, between 4pm and 8pm on Thursday, June 27.
Residents are being urged to attend to submit their views, and representatives will be on hand to answer any questions locals may have.
Anyone who is unable to attend is asked to visit www.jrpassoc.co.uk/consultation where the plans can be found.
The website will go live after the consultation event.
Comments can also be emailed to info@jrpassoc.co.uk or posted to 14 Mariner Court, Calder Park, Wakefield WF4 3FL.
