TWO big office blocks are due to rise on what was once a cricket field and pave the way for the area around to become greener.

When the Central Electricity Generating Board had its headquarters at Beckwith Knowle at the top of Harlow Hill, in Harrogate, its workers played competitive cricket in local leagues.

But for the past few years there has been no sporting use of the field around which business parks have been built.

Commercial Estates Management is seeking planning permission to build two three-storey office blocks with a total floor space of more than 7,000 square metres with 239 parking space, two cycle sheds and a bus shelter.

Neighbours and conservationists are worried that office workers would still park on nearby roads, such as Beckwith Head Road, which they say has already become a glorified car park.

The protest is being led by Harlow and Pannal Ash residents' association and Harrogate Civic Society, but borough council officials are set to overrule their objections.

Area planning officer Mairi Lock said the scheme was in line with policies and should be approved once the applicants have signed an agreement which will include paying £35,000 to set up a dedicated cycleway from the site along Otley Road towards the town centre and a further £25,000, which will help pay for a green travel study aimed at reducing workers' reliance on their cars.