By John Baron
More than 2,500 people have so far had their say over developing the long-established Headingley Station Allotments in Kirkstall.
WLD reported last month that Leeds City Council is seeking views on a planning blueprint which could see thousands of new homes built on potential sites across Leeds – including up to 61 homes on the allotments site.
The plan will guide how land is used and developed. It influences planning decisions to ensure any developments meet the needs of the community and the environment.
A range of potential sites included in the consultation were put forward by developers, landowners, residents and others.
At the time of publishing, 1,700 people have so far signed an online petition opposing and potential development of the allotments, and 853 comments had been made on the official consultation site.
The petition has been launched by Burley resident Stuart Long.
He said: “We’re incredibly proud to have reached 1,700 signatures on the Headingley Allotments petition – a powerful sign of just how much this space means to our community. Allotments are more than plots of land – they provide fresh food, improve mental and physical wellbeing, build community, and help tackle the climate crisis at a local level.
“At a time when green spaces are under pressure, we must protect places like Headingley Allotments for future generations.”
Kirkstall councillor Hannah Bithell (Lab) opposes development there and recently encouraged people to take part in the council’s formal consultation.
She said people can have their say on the Leeds Local Plan – and whether Headingley Station Allotments site should be developed – in the consultation here.
A council spokesperson has stressed that the authority is required to assess all sites put forward as part of the consultation.
A statement said: “This site has been submitted as part of our ‘call for sites’ in the Leeds Local Plan and is not a council proposal. The ‘call for sites’ asks landowners, developers and local people to suggest sites that might be suitable for new development.
“It is important to stress that we are required to assess all sites put forward as part of the consultation. However, at this early stage, no decisions have been made on the suitability of these sites for development.
“We recognise that the allotments are a valuable asset to the local community and have an immense value for people’s health and wellbeing.
“We would therefore urge everyone who has an opinion on this, or any other sites included, to have their say by visiting the dedicated consultation website where we can formally gather feedback on each site put forward.
“The Leeds Local Plan is open for feedback until September 15 and can be accessed online. A range of in-person drop-in events have also been arranged for anyone wanting to find out more.”
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