A PLAN to build a workshop for repairing and storing farm machinery has been rejected by planners because the area is prone to flooding.

Almost 130 residents tabled protests about plans to build the workshop behind Skellholme and Burnside at Fishergreen, Ripon, close to the River Skell.

Members of Ripon area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council backed planning officer Mike Warden, who recommended refusal. Mr Warden said because the site was prone to flooding, the application should be refused planning permission in accordance with district planning policy.

He added that the scheme would "seriously and adversely" harm the amenity of nearby homes.

Roads leading to the site, because of their width, condition and gradient, were considered unsuitable for traffic.

A 113-name petition was tabled along with 16 individual letters opposing the scheme. Objectors feared increased flooding, a risk of pollution, visual intrusion, an increase in noise and fumes and fears over access.

North Yorkshire's highways authority also objected, saying the access was not suitable for agricultural machinery.