PLANNERS considering a scheme to build new homes have said that a city already has too many.
A plan for five homes with garages, landscaping and vehicle access on greenfield land next to the Wheatsheaf Inn, Harrogate Road, has been submitted by Richmond Hill Ltd.
Harrogate Borough councillors will consider the issue on Tuesday.
Planning officer Andy Hough said he recognised Government encouragement to make more efficient use of urban land.
But he said the issue of current overprovision of homes - by as much as 50 per cent - was a relevant one.
The site, close to Morrisons and the southern end of the bypass, is largely enclosed by mature hedgerows.
Ripon City Council does not object to the proposals, but has said it will resist any further development in the area, which is an entry to the city.
If the scheme is approved, the council wants more trees to be planted on site.
Letters objecting to the development say that bats live at the site, pointing out it would be an offence to damage or destroy any habitats.
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