THE site of a former tennis and bowling club in Harrogate can be developed for housing, it has been decided.

Harrogate borough councillors voted by eight votes to seven to approve the scheme for eight terrace properties at the former base of Low Harrogate Tennis and Bowling Club, in Victoria Road.

The vote was against planning officer's advice.

The application was tabled by the Duchy of Lancaster.

The site became empty when the tennis club merged with the former Harrogate Sports Club, to become Harrogate Racquets Club, in Firs Road, off Leeds Road. The bowling club has moved to the Tewit Well area of the town.

The development scheme was backed letters by of support from local residents and Harrogate Civic Society.