A VILLAGE shop and community room could be created in a house if councillors back the plans next week.

Leavening Community Interest Group has submitted an application to convert the bungalow at Two Wold View, Leavening, near Malton, into a shop.

A community room would also be created to house an Internet and self-service drinks area.

People living nearby have objected to the plans, saying that having a shop next door would devalue their properties and lead to parking problems.

But Ryedale District Council planning officer Stephen Seager has recommended that permission be approved.

He said: "In terms of neighbouring amenity, it is considered that activity generated by the shop is likely to be low-level."

The plans have also been backed by James Cleary, chairman of the parish council.

He said: "The store will be a valuable asset to the village both commercially and, more importantly, socially.

"Not only will the shop reduce the isolation experienced by some of the villagers, particularly the elderly and those without private transport, but plans for a community meeting room within the shop building will also offer a much-need- ed space for small comm-unity groups and training, in the absence of a village hall."

Councillor Brian Cottam, district council ward member, and the Yorkshire Countrywomen's Association have also voiced their approval of the plans.

The authority's planning committee will make a decision on the application on Tuesday.