Councillors are about to consider a controversial housing plan in a Yorkshire Dales village after deferring the issue two months ago to investigate alternative sites.

The plan to build seven homes at Summerbridge, near Pateley Bridge, has already led to an exhibition of the scheme, a public meeting, 18 letters of protest, a 47-name petition and objections from the parish council.

When members of the Ripon area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council meet to decide the issue at Pateley, next Tues-day, planning officer Jill North will recommend approval.

But Hartwith-cum-Winsley Parish Council is objecting to the plan, saying it will extend village boundaries. Also, it is not convinced of a proven need for the housing.

Miss North said three alternative sites had been considered at the outset, before submission of the application by Home Housing Association, of The Whinfields.

The site is on a west-facing valley-side overlooking Summerbridge, and would include seven affordable homes, four two-bedroomed properties and three with three bedrooms.

Other sites considered included land opposite High Row at the fire station, land next to Summerbridge Methodist Church, and a site near to the junction of Whinbush Lane.

Miss North says following reassessment of the three sites, it was considered they were not better placed to serve identified needs. The scheme would involve the loss of six council-owned lock-up garages.

Miss North says the site will not be as prominent as a neighbouring bungalow. Mature trees and woodland were an important part of the valley and their retention, plus replacement, would help to reduce the impact of the site, she says.

The scheme would include widening Whinbush Lane and improving a junction.

Objectors' concerns include: loss of garages, no assurance properties will go to local people, financial loss from increased insurance for ungaraged cars, loss of privacy and and the use of brick and concrete roof tiles inappropriate in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.