A pioneering sustainable housing and industrial development on unused land surrounding a wastewater treatment works has received planning approval.

The project will transform 180 acres of land around Yorkshire Water’s Esholt site and will include new business workspaces to be supplied with heat, energy and water generated by the works, maximising sustainability.

Included in the plans are 150 homes, alongside the innovative employment space which will give particular focus to bio-tech businesses.

A key aim is to show how homes and businesses can reduce their water consumption through innovative design, in a move that Yorkshire Water hopes will influence how developments can contribute to meeting the challenge of supplying a growing region with the water it needs, without impacting the environment.

Keyland Developments Ltd, Yorkshire Water’s sister company, was granted permission by Bradford City Council.

Yorkshire Water chief executive Liz Barber said: “As Yorkshire’s second largest landowner we are committed to ensuring the land works in the best interest of people in the region.

“This is a landmark development and one that will form a large part of plans for sustainable growth in Bradford and the economy in the area.”

Alongside the new development, the utility is already working to redevelop an historic manor house, Esholt Hall, into a centre of excellence for learning and training, offering a state-of-the-art venue for staff, graduates and apprentices.