A BID to convert a former pig farm into a manufacturing plant in the region is being recommended for approval.

The scheme would involve storage of products on land at Potgate Farm, North Stainley, Ripon, for Lightwater Farms Limited, which is close to Lightwater Valley Theme Park.

North Yorkshire county councillors will hear the application at Northallerton on Tuesday.

Planning officer Chris Jarvis said the site was within an area of mineral extraction at Potgate Quarry.

He is recommending applicants sign a legal agreement restricting use of the land so it cannot be used for mineral extraction.

Mr Jarvis is also suggesting to councillors that the plant, which will produce concrete products, should be restricted to operating between 7.30am and 6pm, Mondays to Fridays, and 7.30am to 1pm on Saturdays, with no working on Sundays or bank holidays.

In his report to councillors, Mr Jarvis said the scheme had the potential to generate both noise and dust, but the applicants had taken reasonable steps to prevent nuisance.

But he recommends extra controls are put in place to protect nearby homes.

Harrogate Borough Council has not objected, nor has the Environment Agency, subject to conditions to protect the water environment.

North Stainley and Sleningford Parish Council do not object, but believe part of a public bridleway runs through the site and say the route differs from one shown on the planning application.