Children’s lives could be at risk on busy roads close to a building site, it is feared.

Safety concerns have been voiced about lorries using the plot, which is opposite a primary school.

But this week Cross Green Developments, which is constructing 13 houses on the land in Station Road, Oakworth, said it took safety extremely seriously and would do everything possible to minimise any potential risks.

Former teacher Martin Harwood claims the area around the site was already hazardous due to the volume of traffic.

“You have a very busy Co-op next door, and with the school back for the autumn term, parents will be dropping off and collecting their children,” said retired Mr Harwood, 65, of Hob Cote Lane.

“The area is chaotic enough without the additional vehicles from the housing site.”

He also claimed there had been no consultation with the public prior to work starting.

“The first I knew anything about it was when I saw the footings going in,” he added.

A spokesman for Cross Green Developments, which began work at the plot in July, said the firm was aware of the busy nature of the area and would be “as careful as possible”.

He added: “The main equipment is in place, so the amount of traffic to and from the site will be minimal.

“We are very conscious of our responsibilities and want to work with – and be a part of – the community. Indeed, we have spoken to the primary school regarding possible collaborative projects, such as the naming of houses.

“We have received some very positive feedback from people. This was a brownfield site and our development of family homes will, we feel, provide an asset to the community.”

He said work on the scheme, known as Worth Valley Mews, was due for completion next year.