A PLAN to create a meat cutting, processing and packing unit next to the A1 has been withdrawn ahead of a planning meeting.

The project, by P Hutton Limited, drew 102 objections.

Among those against the scheme at Rougham Farm, Marton-cum-Grafton, near Boroughbridge, was Marton-cum-Grafton Parish Council.

A planning application in April that sought to transfer an abattoir and meat packaging operation by the same company from its slaughterhouse in Castle Ings, Knaresborough, to the Rougham Farm site, was refused, the parish council said.

The parish council said the main difference was that the abattoir had been left out of the latest application, but cutting, preparation and packaging were included.

A spokesman for Harrogate Borough Council said the application had been withdrawn seven days ahead of a planning application due to be heard by the council.