Sir – It is probable that many Skipton residents may not be aware that a full planning application (named Wyvern Park by the developer) for extensive development alongside the A629 bypass, has been submitted to Craven District Council’s Planning Department.

A few residents have been contacted, but as this is the largest proposed development for very many years that will impact massively on the whole of Skipton and district, it needs to be more widely known and transparent.

It will be quickly noticed that the application has been submitted over the Christmas and New Year period.

The planning department’s letter says that comments should be made online or in writing within 21 days of the December 31.

However, on phoning the planning office I learnt that the deadline had been extended until January 8, with the planning meeting being held on 13 January!

The introduction to this proposal is straightaway misleading.

It says that this is an ‘employment led mixed use development’.

No business or developer builds for employment, not even Titus Salt!

It is, of course, in this case for profit, supermarket wars and council business rates. It is very doubtful that a town the size of Skipton needs a sixth supermarket let alone one that is bigger than any of the others.

No, Sainsbury’s is needed to fund the massive works that are required on site and the smaller units.

The proposal is drastically different from the original designated use as an upmarket business park and light industry, which is done so well at Broughton.

Immediately worrying are the proposals despite objections, to use the dangerous Carleton Road as a link road – a ‘rat-run’. Is this the negative hand of County Highways?

Also, there is the ‘creation of a Development Plateau’. Would the contractor use the bypass for access or come through town?

The plans and other details may be viewed at CDC’s planning department,Skipton Town Council office or online at www.planning.cravendc.gov.uk/fastweb

G W Wood, Skipton