A Thirsk developer has received planning permission to build a large, detached home despite a scheme for two houses on the same site being turned down.

Andy Swales lodged an appeal against the refusal of the application for two homes at the Coach Depot, at The Flatts, in Sowerby.

But now members of Hambleton District Council's development control committee have approved his revised plan for one house at the site.

Councillors heard that Thirsk and Sowerby needed larger homes.

Mr Swales plans to build a six-bedroomed house and indoor swimming pool on the former depot land.

Earlier this year, the committee turned down a scheme for two detached homes because the development would be "inappropriate to the character and form of the locality and residential amenity".

In support of his new application, Mr Swales said he employed local people to build executive homes in the Thirsk area. He said the depot site had been an eyesore for some years.

"There are no grounds to resist this application as the principle of a dwelling on the site has been accepted," he said.

Councillor David Murkett said: "Thirsk and Sowerby need bigger houses. This plan is much better then the two which were being proposed."