Concerns over transparency in the Chidswell planning process

At CPRE West Yorkshire, we believe that good planning depends on openness, fairness and genuine public engagement.

Communities have a right to understand how significant developments will affect their area, and to have confidence that decisions are being made transparently and in the public interest. That’s why we’ve written to Kirklees Council to raise concerns about how the revised Section 106 (S106) agreement has been handled for the proposed development at land south of Heybeck Lane, Chidswell, Shaw Cross, Dewsbury (application reference 2020/60/92350/E).

The S106 agreement is a vital part of the planning process. It sets out how the impacts of significant developments are managed and the benefits that will be delivered to local communities. However, the revised agreement has been available for only 14 days, and the original version was not published during the first consultation.

Following a recent High Court judgment on this same application, transparency and accountability are more important than ever. We believe that the Council’s current approach risks undermining public confidence and limiting people’s ability to properly scrutinise such an important document.

In our letter to Kirklees Council, we’ve urged them to take three simple but essential steps:

1. Extend the consultation period to give residents, community groups and stakeholders enough time to review and comment on the revised agreement.

2. Ensure the decision is made by the Planning Committee, in public, rather than under delegated powers.

3. Provide a clear explanation of how the revised agreement responds to the issues identified by the court.

These steps are not about delay; they are about trust. The planning system only works when people feel they’ve been treated fairly and openly.

At CPRE West Yorkshire, we believe meaningful engagement is the foundation of good planning. Kirklees Council now has an opportunity to show that lessons have been learned and to rebuild confidence by making the Chidswell process open, inclusive and accountable.

We continue to support community groups and residents across West Yorkshire who are engaging with complex planning processes, ensuring local voices are heard and valued. By sharing knowledge, providing guidance, and working together, we can promote development that respects both people and the countryside – creating places where everyone can thrive.

You can read our full response here↗