A PARISH council is opposing plans to convert former farm buildings into offices in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Felliscliffe Parish Council, near Harrogate, has objected to the scheme at White Wall Farm, White Wall Lane.

Developers want to convert the building for office, research or light industrial use. They also plan covered parking, a kitchen, canteen, toilets, washrooms, rest rooms and storage area.

But the parish council said the scheme would involve over-intensive development, impact on neighbours, affect the appearance of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and bring an excessive increase in vehicles.

It said the application was nearly identical to one refused in November 2000 on a site a short distance away.

Neighbours have also sent letters of objection, complaining about loss of privacy, noise and disturbance and the adverse impact on the natural area of beauty.

Members of an area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council will discuss the application on Tuesday when planning officer Mark Williams will recommend approval, saying that the conversion would be in accordance with council policy.