A MAJOR new holiday complex could be created in the shadow of the North York Moors on what is currently an egg production and packaging plant.

Noble Foods have unveiled plans to convert the site into a 100-caravan holiday park complete with swimming pool and various leisure facilities.

And despite objections by the local parish council, the local county councillor and various individuals, planning officials are recommending the scheme should be given the go-ahead.

The site covers just over 10 hectares south-west of Seamer, between Middlesbrough and the National Park, at Carr Plant, Crossland and Oakhill Farms.

Egg production and packaging at the site has been downscaled in recent times because of the popularity of free-range eggs and some of the buildings now stand redundant.

Under the proposed scheme some buildings would be refurbished, extended and converted and a new 1,600 sq m building constructed.

There would also be outdoor sports facilities, gardens, wildlife ponds landscaping an even an on-site sewage treatment plant.

However the local parish council has objected to the scheme, saying it would overwhelm Seamer and dominate the immediate area.

They also claim access is inappropriate, that there would be a vast increase in traffic and cite fears of noise, fumes and light pollution.

The parish council also voiced concerns of a threat to the area’s flora and fauna and said the whole project would harm the "quiet and tranquil" area.

County councillor Caroline Seymour said: "The access is poor and the facilities in Seamer are poor with only a pub, no shop or children’s play area."

She added: "Such a development would be intrusive in this quiet rural setting."

Coun Seymour said Seamer already suffered from speeding as it was on a busy commuter route.

"There would need to be traffic calming at all entrances to the village and proper footways constructed to Stokesley for the visitors to use," she added.

However Hambleton District council planning officials say that, subject to various conditions, the development would "satisfactorily relate" to its surroundings.

They call it a "sustainable development with limited effects on ecology, neighbouring occupiers or highway safety."

Councillors are being recommended to approve the scheme when they meet in Northallerton on Thursday.