A FORMER school is to be demolished and a complex of 24 flats built on the site - despite objections from neighbours.

The Catholic Diocese of Middlesbrough has applied to Scarborough Council to carry out the scheme at St John's School, in Albion Place, Whitby.

Members of the authority's northern area planning committee are recommended to approve the project, which has been backed by Whitby Town Council.

The town's civic society said: "We would hope a development of this size will make some contribution to the real housing needs of Whitby, including affordable housing, and that most of the flats will be for full-time occupation and not used as second homes or holiday accommodation."

However, the plan attracted a number of objections from residents in Gray Street, Albion Place, Windsor Terrace and Prospect Hill, who say it will result in the loss of the Little Oaks Nursery School, which uses the school buildings. They also fear structural damage to neighbouring properties.

Other protestors say it is an over-development of the site and there will be increased traffic congestion and parking difficulties.

There is also concern about a colony of bats living in the school roof, although planning officer David Green says there was no evidence that they were there.

Mr Green said the school buildings were of no particular architectural merit and not in good repair.

He said: "It is considered that this is a well-designed scheme that will enhance the character of the area."

The committee is also being recommended to give the go- ahead to plans to convert a shop at 2-3 Marine Parade, on the harbourside at Whitby, into a Indian restaurant and takeaway.