A DECISION on a controversial development of a library, sheltered housing, flats and offices at the old county depot at North Road, Stokesley, is taking so long to determine that the developer of part of the site was seeking permission to go ahead now.

Plans for 40 flats, a new library, meeting facilities and office accommodation, as well as the 12 houses, has been accepted in principle by Hambleton development planning committee, subject to design modifications.

This plan for the whole site has been the subject of several amended designs already but the committee still feels that it is too modern and it has been likened to a car showroom more suitable for Middlesbrough than the attractive market town of Stokesley.

It has also been the subject of petitions both for and against on road safety grounds.

The builder of 12 of the properties has now submitted a separate plan so that they can go ahead. CM Yuill intends building the houses to the rear of the site.

Coun John Coulson said that allowing this plan made sense, as the rear of the site needed building before a start was made on the major development.

It was agreed that permission be granted with conditions regarding access to the site.