A DEVELOPMENT of 40 new houses on a controversial site near Thirsk will bring an investment of nearly £150,000 to the local community.

Hambleton District Council's planning committee is being urged to approve a revised scheme by Taylor Wimpey for the land at Ripon Way, Carlton Miniott, despite objections from the parish council and 24 local people.

The developers plan to build 40 houses with garages, including eight affordable homes. Previous plans were thrown out because of concerns over design and phasing but the latest plan has been recommended for approval by officers.

The parish council say the land was due to be developed in two phases up to 2026 with only 36 houses in total, 40 per cent of them affordable. Local objectors said there are already enough houses in the area with the new development of 900 at Sowerby and estate agents are struggling to sell existing housing stock.

They are also concerned about the increased risk of flooding and loss of mature trees on the site. Objectors also point out the size of the plots which are smaller and not in keeping with the neighbouring estate. There will also be an estimated 30 per cent increase in traffic using the road.

But in a report to the planning committee, which meets on Thursday January 9, officers say the number of dwellings is different from what was originally allocated because of a more accurate measurement of the site.

They add: "The development would make a contribution of approximately £148,100 towards the provision of essential infrastructure within Carlton Miniott, which has been confirmed as reasonable in view of the unusual construction costs identified by the applicant. “