Derelict Menston building to be brought back to use

The old Hawksworth Moor service reservoir building on Hillings Lane, Menston, has been derelict for several years since a Yorkshire Water restructuring in the 1990s.

But now, one of the company’s subsidiary businesses, KeyLand Developments, has applied to transform the old building into a modern, six-bedroom house, complete with cinema-room, studio, wine store and separate gym, sauna and steam room.

A report to Bradford District Council’s Area Planning Panel (Shipley) suggests the plan is approved subject to a raft of conditions, including a three-year time limit, tree protection and suitable access to Hillings Road.

If built, the new house will sit in the footprint of the former reservoir, after removing the roof of the old building.

The home would be covered with a sedum roof and also have a winter garden, reflection pool and a three-car garage.

Despite objections from Menston Parish Council, who say access to the home is on a “dangerous and narrow road”, a report to the panel states: “The proposal, as amended, is considered to result in a sympathetic and sensitive conversion of the existing structure without adversely affecting the openness of the green belt.

“No significant adverse implications are foreseen in terms of highway safety, impact upon protected species and trees, residential amenity or effect on the openness of the green belt.”

The panel was expected to meet to discuss the application at City Hall, at 10am today