A SCHEME to convert a builder's yard into an area for industry in a village near Ripon has sparked protests from a parish council, a county councillor and a string of residents.

When a planning application for change of use at the site, in Mankin Lane, off Littlethorpe Road, Littlethorpe, is heard by planners in Ripon, next Tuesday, objections will be tabled by Littlethorpe Parish Council.

The application also seeks permission to use the site without restriction for vehicles.

But parish council chairman Roly Curtis claims the site has, for several years, been used as a motor vehicle repair garage.

In a letter to the council objecting to the plan, he says residents have had to put up with noise and obstructions unacceptable in a pleasant rural location.

"The unloading of cars and heavy vehicles from articulated transporters has been of particular concern. You may be tempted to take the view that these concerns can be addressed by planning conditions. Past experience has shown that this would not be the case," writes Mr Curtis, who says that other sites are more suitable for industrial use.

Urging rejection of the application, Mr Curtis says: "Littlethorpe does not have a village green and the only public areas where villagers can have a sit-down and enjoy looking at cut grass and flowers is the village triangle, just a few strides from the proposed site.

"It would be absolutely inappropriate to inflict extra vehicles and increased noise on people enjoying this peaceful area."

Planning officer Mike Warden is recommending approval of the application, subject to a number of conditions, but ten letters of protest have been sent to the committee.