A petition opposing further housing development in Killinghall has been launched by residents, attracting more than 250 signatures.
The petition, addressed to North Yorkshire Council’s Planning Department, calls for the council to reconsider new proposals for housing in and around the village.
It states that Killinghall is “already heavily developed with residential homes” and is “struggling to cope with the rapid pace of change.”
The petition, created by Mike Wilkinson, says that residents are concerned about traffic congestion, pollution and the strain on local services.
He said:
"The roads in our community are bursting at the seams, unable to handle the volume of traffic that currently exists. This has not only led to an increase in pollution but has also made travelling a daily frustration for all residents.
"Moreover, essential services are not keeping up with the increasing population. The local school is at capacity, making it difficult for new families to settle in comfortably. Adding to our woes, the only doctors' practice and pharmacy in the village have recently shut their doors."
The petition also says that further housing would remove “the little green space we have left.”
Several developments have recently been approved or proposed in the area. These include:
- 55 homes approved at Grainbeck Lane
- 73 homes with planning consent on land sold to Yorkshire Housing
- A proposal for 144 homes off Otley Road, currently under consideration
These developments form part of wider housing growth across the Harrogate area.
North Yorkshire Council has stated in planning documents that housing delivery remains a 'key priority' to meet regional targets set under national planning policy.
Each application is assessed individually against adopted planning frameworks and community feedback gathered through public consultation.
The petition remains open online and is directed at North Yorkshire Council’s planning department.

Festive igloos return to Boroughbridge pub
Christmas toy appeal launches to spread joy and sustainability
Northern Lights spotted above Harrogate district
Details revealed for return of Knaresborough's Bright Friday
Harrogate school honours Victoria Cross heroes with new display
New kitchen design studio opens in Boroughbridge
Much-loved village pub to reopen this week after six years
Ripley shop embraces Sara Cox road closure with festive fundraiser
Remembrance Day commemorations held to honour the fallen
Ripon kickboxer wins silver and bronze medals for England
Harrogate badminton star wins triple gold at international tournaments
Talented Ripon runners to compete nationally after gold at regional championships
Harrogate pupils and care residents unite to create hundreds of handmade poppies
Rishi Sunak MP criticised for non-attendance at council meetings
Electric ambulances trialled in North Yorkshire
Harrogate woman bags bronze medal at New York Marathon
BBC's Sara Cox to visit Harrogate as part of epic fundraising challenge
Ripon City Council councillor could have to resign after reporting colleague to police
Harrogate firm helps provide warm clothing for local children in need
Operators of Ripon pub bag award


