EUROPE'S biggest British Army garrison could be poised to expand its civilian population.

Councillors will decided if they should rubber-stamp a draft infrastructure plan for a new community on the eastern edge of Catterick Garrison on Tuesday.

If they approve the Defence Estates' proposals, it will signify the first step towards the construction of an estate which could involve 400 homes.

A detailed report to Richmondshire District Council's planning committee points out that the land - known locally as Arras Lines - is ripe for development.

It has already been earmarked as a priority location for housing in the authority's Local Plan.

Parts of the site on the south side of Catterick Road, near Colburn, have been used in the past as a coal yard, oil and petrol store, and garage, for carpentry and even as a tip. A few rough roads and building foundations remain.

However, the land is now disused and can therefore be classified as a Brown Field site - fitting neatly with Government guidelines on regeneration.

The report indicates building is likely to go ahead in phases, with 175 homes included in the first two stages, with the rest to come later.

Properties would be of various types, with flats and smaller homes blending with larger houses to encourage a diverse and integrated community.

However, even though Defence Estates is fronting the project and the new estate borders the Army garrison, the properties will go on sale on the open market.

Third on the list of the agency's stated objectives is "to contribute towards achieving a truly sustainable, integrated military and civilian community within Catterick Garrison".

Defence Estates is also expecting to contribute towards the cost of additional places at local schools, while public transport would also be revised to take the new homes into account.

However, planning officers have highlighted a new road on to the estate as an area for concern. Plans submitted so far show a loop road serving the new homes which Richmondshire District Council's Brian Hodges, describes as unacceptable.

"North Yorkshire County Council's highways department concurs with this view and further discussions will take place with the applicant," he said.