A PIECE of Northallerton's history could be demolished and replaced with houses if a controversial plan gets the go-ahead.

The Lodge, in the town's cemetery, has been in place since the cemetery was built in the 1800s and is occupied by the caretaker and gardener and his family.

But The Northern Echo has learned proposals to demolish it and redevelop the land are being considered by the Joint Burial Committee for Romanby and Northallerton.

A document proposing the plans explains that the cost of the cemetery extension has drained the committee of funds.

The situation is worsened by the fact that people are not coming forward to buy the new burial plots.

The cost of running The Lodge just adds to the burden.

The document said: "Expenditure is exceeding income and steps must be taken to secure the cemetery for the future.

"To this end, the Joint Burial Committee is looking into the possibility of some type of residential development on the site of The Lodge and its garden as The Lodge does require major refurbishment."

A source said The Lodge was diverting funds from other projects. It could be replaced by seven to ten houses or a dozen flats.

"It's a hot potato," he said. "It costs a tremendous amount of money in upkeep.

"But it's part of the heritage of Northallerton.

"I anticipate a lot of aggravation from Romanby and North-allerton residents.

"It is going to be like throwing a little cat into a dog pound.

"I could be wrong, but I expect it is going to give people a lot of ammunition to have a go with."

Another source said: "The committee will now be waiting for a response from the people of Northallerton and Romanby.

"It is a very sensitive issue. It would have to be handled in a delicate way because people go there nearly everyday to pay their respects and look after the graves. But they cannot keep hurling money at The Lodge."

The proposal will be discussed in private by Northallerton Town Council on Monday at the end of its 7pm meeting.