MDM Homes Ltd’s application for the waterside community on Lock Lane – with cafés, bars and 70 parking spaces – will be decided at a Wakefield Council planning and highways meeting.

More than 50 residents have objected to the development, which would be built in a restricted zone around the former Hickson and Welch chemical factory.

A report to the meeting said that the Health and Safety Executive advised against building homes in a restricted zone.

It added: “It is noted that there is no longer a major chemical works that trades at the site. However there is still a hazardous substances consent at the site that could be used without further permission and still hazardous substances in situ.

“The regeneration benefits are recognised, however in light of the advice from the HSE on this ‘inner zone’ site this does not outweigh the risk posed to future occupiers.”

Complaints have been made about the increase in traffic, highways safety and size or design of the flats but 18 letters of support say the plans would regenerate the area and provide new homes to keep younger people in Castleford.

Project manager Antony Georgallis said: “There’s no reason why towns and small cities shouldn’t have the same riverside living as larger places.

“Once somebody has the courage and conviction to kick-start development on Castleford’s river then others will follow. Regeneration here can only bring more people into the town and encourage them to stay.”

MDM Homes Ltd’s part five-storey part eight-storey development would replace the Bridge End Furniture Ltd store, which will continue trading and plans to relocate to new premises in the town.