A FIELD in Skipton is set to be built on with more than 50 new homes after the site was bought up by a developer.

Skipton Properties has submitted plans for the site off Airedale Avenue after buying it from North Yorkshire Council. In addition to the 53 new homes, of one to four bedroom in size, including 30 per cent affordable, there will be new play areas and landscape features providing “much-needed quality homes that the town of Skipton requires”.

The former Craven District Council, which was replaced by North Yorkshire Council last year, had hoped to build houses on the site with its joint venture company Craven Barnfield Regeneration Ltd.

A plan for 53 homes was submitted in 2019 and approved in the following year, subject to conditions. However, it was never progressed, and marked as “finally disposed of” by the council in July last year, which then decided to sell the land.

Now, Skipton Properties has bought the site, which is allocated for housing in the Craven Local Plan, from North Yorkshire Council.

The triangular site measures just more than six acres, with vehicular access off Airedale Avenue, as well as from Otley Road, using a passageway under the railway bridge. There are houses to two sides of the triangle.

A design and access statement with the application states: “The site currently presents an opportunity for main vehicular access at the south-west corner. There is potential to create future links for further development via through roads. There is pedestrian access from the west of the site, as well as the south through the existing residential development.”

A spokesperson for Skipton Properties said: “Skipton Properties is pleased to announce the submission of a planning application for a new residential development at Airedale Avenue, Skipton.

“The proposed development will deliver 53 new homes, offering a diverse range of one, two, three and four bedroom properties, addressing the council’s identified need for new housing in the area.

“In line with council policy, the development will include 30 per cent affordable housing, ensuring a range of affordable options are available to meet the community’s needs. These homes will play a crucial role in making quality housing accessible to all.”

The spokesperson added: “Skipton Properties is committed to instilling its hallmark quality in every aspect of the build, from the selection of materials to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each home.

“The homes will be designed by the award-winning Guiseley-based architects, Watson Batty, which is renowned for its innovative and sustainable designs.

“Each property will incorporate energy-efficient measures to reduce energy use and CO2 emissions, reflecting Skipton Properties’ dedication to building homes that stand the test of time and contribute to a sustainable future.

“The development will also prioritise wellbeing and health for both new residents and the wider community. Designed by leading landscape architects Golby and Luck, the project includes dedicated play spaces, green infrastructure and bio-diversity enhancement through the creation of new ecological habitats, which will enhance the quality of life for the whole community.

“Skipton Properties believes that this development will provide the much-needed quality homes that the town of Skipton requires. The company is committed to excellence, creativity, and innovation and is eager to bring this vision to life.”

Potential buyers can register their interest at skiptonproperties.com