A FARM has been given permission to diversify into the water sports business, despite reservations expressed by the county council.

The authority claimed the project contravened its policies on development in the countryside.

It was worried the scheme was too ambitious and could prove detrimental to the area.

However, with few objections raised by local residents, the Richmondshire district authority disagreed on Tuesday.

Planners agreed to approve the redevelopment of the pig farm at Ellerton on the edge of Scorton, although with a number of conditions.

The blueprint includes a farm shop and store in existing barns on the site, with a new building to include a restaurant, an 18-bed accommodation block for tourists and another shop selling water sports and diving equipment.

Its estimated the project could create 28 jobs, although some will be part-time and others seasonal.

It is hoped the new facilities will be able to host residential courses on diving in future as well as others in canoeing, wind-surfing and sailing.

Parts of Ellerton North Farm will remain in agricultural use, with lamb, fruit and vegetables grown on the land to be sold at the new farm shop. Pork from other local farmers will also be available.