PLANS to convert part of a historic hotel into houses have been submitted.

Coast and Country Hotels Group wants to build five houses in the northern wing of The Croft, in Croft-on-Tees, near Darlington.

The remainder of the 170-year-old building, recently refurbished at a cost of about £500,000, would continue to be used as a hotel.

The northern wing currently includes a gym, conference facilities, staff accommodation and guest bedrooms.

Richmondshire District councillors have been recommended to appove the plans on Wednesday.

Work to build four houses in the hotel car park has already started.