AN eco-holiday village on the outskirts of Richmond plans to expand after a successful first year in business.

Natural Retreats has ten environmentally-friendly log cabins on 54 acres at Aislabeck and wants to build nine more.

The company says that the ten lodges, opened last October, have been booked for most of the summer and there are many repeat bookings.

Ewan Kearney, operations director, said: "We have been delighted by the popularity of the residences and the fact that they are bringing much-needed trade to the area.

"Because it is our policy not to have any additional facilities on site, we actively encourage guests to use local shops and services during their stay. Our welcome hampers are also sourced from local retailers and use local products."

Like the existing lodges, the new homes would be built from sustainable timber and glass with grass roofs and green features - such as recycled insulation and reed bed sewerage systems.

A planning application has been supported by planners at Richmondshire District Council and will be considered by the planning committee on Tuesday.

Council officers said the development is acceptable but await comments from the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

If the trust has no objections, senior planner Peter Featherstone will recommend the scheme is approved.

He said a landscape impact report showed the project was acceptable and the existing site has boosted the local economy.

Richmond Town Council has objected to the expansion. Councillors said it would be outside the residential boundary.

Under a legal agreement, Natural Retreats would continue to pay five per cent of its profits from the development into conservation and environmental projects in the Richmond area.

Recent donations included £1,500 to the Richmond Online community website and sponsorship of the town's shopping and eating guide.

A public footpath was opened around the site, linked to the Coast to Coast route, Hurgill Road and the old racecourse.

The land has also been used for a children's art workshop.