Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore reacts to Bradford Council’s continued position in which they intend to sell the playing field next to the Hive Community Centre in Silsden. Last week, a petition to save the site was presented to Bradford Council following the petition gaining over 1,500 signatures.
It has been announced that Bradford Council were looking to sell the green space in order for houses to be built on the site. This is in spite of the fact that it is a much-loved space which is frequently used by local sports clubs and the nearby school. The Hive Community Centre, which is located next to the site, also use it throughout the year to put on entertainment events for the local community.
The Hive Silsden CIO are a charity which has been set up to try and protect the site. They have applied for the land to be registered as an Asset of Community Value, which will make it easier to protect the site. However, Bradford Council have proceeded with plans to sell the green space.
Robbie Moore MP said: “It is absolutely vital that we save the playing field adjoining the Hive in Silsden. It is a much-loved site which is regularly used by many constituents. It is horrifying to think Bradford Council are trying to ‘pull the wool over our eyes’ in their efforts to try and justify their position by saying the land is not needed as a playing field, just so that they can sell the land for housebuilding. I urge them to urgently recognise the huge benefits this green space has for both leisure and recreation, but also for health and wellbeing.
I am very supportive of the petition which has been put to Bradford Council calling for this site to be saved, and I only hope that common sense prevails so that this site remains for all to enjoy. I will not stop in my efforts to ensure this land is protected.”
