NEW policies could soon be introduced limiting who can buy new homes in the Yorkshire Dales.

After months of extensive public consultation, the national park is on the verge of agreeing the framework of a blueprint for the future.

The first phase of a new Local Plan for the region will be published in the summer.

However, if proposals contained in the document are approved, they will be formally adopted as policy in the Yorkshire Dales National Park by 2004.

Among the recommendations are:

* A ban on the sale of new homes outside recognised conurbations to buyers from outside the national park

* Planning policies to encourage farmers to come up with new uses for their land

* Policies to encourage employers to bring new jobs to the area

* Concessions for those involved in agricultural or environmental work, allowing them to live in the countryside, as long as there is a justifiable need.

A lack of affordable housing has been a particular problem in the Dales in recent years.

Properties are popular among those looking to snap up holiday accommodation or a second home, forcing prices higher than most local first-time buyers can afford.

Dales farmers have also found themselves at a disadvantage when considering new initiatives to add to their dwindling income, because planning restrictions are often tougher in the national park than in other parts of the county.

The park authority planning chief, Peter Watson, said: "The first deposit of the Local Plan recognises the many social and economic changes which have taken place, both within and outside the national park over recent years, and the policies it contains seek to address those developments.

"It proposes bold policies to make new homes available to local residents, many of whom have been priced out of the market, and recognises the authority's wish to encourage new businesses which build on the area's unique identity and high quality environment."

The first deposit of the Yorkshire Dales Local Plan is due to be published in June.

The public will be given six weeks to discuss the contents and any amendments will be included in a second draft, also subject to consultation.

Outstanding issues will go before a public inquiry before the final document is adopted as policy in 2004.