* Click here to sign up to free email news and sport alerts from Kippax Today.

Leeds City Council's East planning panel were expected to give the nod to the plans by Banks Developments after the scheme was recommended for approval at today's meeting.

But more than two years of dogged campaigning finally paid off for members of Residents Against Greenbelt Exploitation (RAGE) and Yorkshire Against New Coal (YANC) when the panel blocked the scheme.

Banks wanted to mine 875,000 tonnes of coal out of the ground on land off Back Newton Lane over the next few years.

Residents from villages of Ledsham, Ledston and Fairburn spoke out because they feared the scheme would have a devastating impact on their peaceful homes and could effect the cherished nearby nature reserve.

Banks' said the company would use the quietist machinery available and haulage routes would not go through Ledston village.

The firm also said the project would create around 41 local jobs, as well as supporting many others in local supply chain businesses.

Banks could now appeal against the council's decision, which would most likely see the plans go to a public inquiry.

Councillors Keith Wakefield and James Lewis have campaigned alongside residents for the last three years in an attempt to prevent the opencast mine being developed right on the door step of a much loved local beauty spot.

Councillor Keith Wakefield (Lab, Kippax & Methley) told Kippax Today: "This is a fantastic outcome for local people, who have campaigned tirelessly for the last three years. This mine have caused massive environmental damage to a very special landscape.

"We have said from the start this development was not right for the area. Over 1,500 local people objected to the opencast mine and I am delighted that they have finally got the result they deserve."

Councillor James Lewis (Lab, Kippax & Methley) added: "I am fully supportive of the campaign to prevent the opencast mine in this area.

"It would have caused extensive environmental harm, and massive amounts of traffic - not only for Ledston but also for the surrounding villages of Kippax and Allerton Bywater.

"Should any similar plan be put forward again residents can be assured they will continue to have our support."