FORMER cottages converted into workshops are to be restored back into two homes.

The scheme, which is next to a petrol station and shops at Foundry Lane, Summerbridge, near Pateley Bridge, was approved by members of an area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council.

Applicants J Todd and Son have been using the former cottages as workshops and storage.

Planning officers said two homes would be built on the same site as the former cottages to the same size and with parking.

Hartwith-cum-Winsley Parish Council have raised no objections to the plan.

Highway chiefs pointed out that a public right of way next to the site must not be obstructed and say the applicants have confirmed they have rights of access over a lane, although they are not owners.

The highway officers also reported that the applicants had offered to re-surface a section of road in their ownership and will contribute half the cost of resurfacing another section.

Planning officers said that the two replacement homes would improve the character of the area and ensure that the properties had an appropriate use.