Stargazers fear new homes will affect observatory

Plans for a housing scheme have been opposed over fears light pollution from the development will impact on a nearby observatory.

Residents and stargazers have raised concerns about proposals to build 192 homes close to the Rosse Observatory in Pontefract.

Since developer Persimmon Homes lodged plans with Wakefield Council to build on land at Holme Farm in Carleton more than 660 objections have been received.

According to planning documents, a lighting assessment has been commissioned by Persimmon to address concerns about light pollution.

The proposed site is about 426ft (130m) from the observatory, which is used by members of West Yorkshire Astronomical Society.

Pontefract South councillor George Ayre said it was one of the leading observatories in the north of England and was great for schools in the local area

"People are worried that its exclusivity could be diminished by building 192 homes so close by," he added.

A total of 669 people objected to the scheme before the closing date for public comments last week, with six people in favour of the plans.

Residents also cited concerns the development would add to traffic problems in the area, as well as a lack of local infrastructure, including a shortage of doctors, dentists and school places.

If approved, the development would include a range of two, three and four-bedroom properties.

A spokesperson for residents against the proposals said the site was "fundamentally unsuitable" adding that "at the same time, brownfield sites around Pontefract remain vacant and undeveloped".

A planning statement prepared on behalf of Persimmon said the site had been allocated for housing under the council's Local Plan and complied with national planning policy.

They said: "It will contribute to the building of a strong, vibrant and healthy community by fostering a well-designed and beautiful safe place to live that contributes to the protection and enhancement of the natural and built environment."

WYAS was formed in 1973, when the first meeting took place at Pontefract Library, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Work on the observatory started in 1977 and it was opened in 1983 by astronomer and broadcaster Sir Patrick Moore.

A lighting assessment has been commissioned by Persimmon Homes to address concerns about light pollution.

The document said a 656ft (200m) "buffer" to the northwest of the site had been established "to prevent light pollution from potentially affecting the operations of the observatory."

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