Housing plans which spark-ed public protests in North Yorkshire look set to be given the go-ahead next week.

Hambleton District Council's development control committee is being recommended to grant planning permission to build 19 houses and 24 flats on a one-hectare plot of land off Crosby Road, Northallerton, when members meet on Thursday.

However, the proposal by George Wimpey North-East caused an outcry from residents who feel the development will create traffic congestion, attract anti-social behaviour and that it is out of keeping with the locality.

The council has received more than 30 letters objecting to the plans and a 43-signiture signed petition.

Among those spearheading the protest are Ann Dale, of Greenhowsyke Road, and Maxine Goddard, of Crosby Road, who both believe the three-storey building will dominate the area and overshadow the neighbouring properties.

They, along with North-allerton Town Council, have also voiced concerns about the density of the proposal.

However, the district council's planning officer, Lydia Spiller, said the proposal for 43 units was in accordance with policy and Government guidelines of 30 to 50 dwellings per hectare.

"There is a need for housing in accordance to our district plan and we look to develop in market towns that have the majority of services," she said.

"This proposal fulfils all the criteria and offers affordable housing. The public's concerns have been addressed in the report to the members and local residents do have a chance to elect a spokesperson to speak at the meeting if they wish."

The plans consist of a cul-de-sac arrangement of detached properties, three terraced houses, a three-storey apartment block, groups of flats dedicated for rent through a housing association and a play area.

Concerns have also been raised by governors at Mill Hill Primary School.

Headteacher Eric Watson said: "We have no objections to the land being developed, but the governors raised concern about the traffic problem, which already exists on the road. We are redesigning our car park to try to alleviate some of the congestion and would like to see a lay-by built outside the school."