CONTROVERSIAL plans to demolish a Great Ayton bungalow and replace it with a two-storey house, with four bathrooms and an additional toilet, have been refused.

Hambleton council said the proposal for 7 Easby Lane would have an unacceptable impact on the surrounding area.

The council received 23 letters of objection from residents worried about traffic safety, congestion, privacy, the loss of an old bungalow and the size of the proposed new building.

One resident had been refused permission to install dormer windows at another property. Others voiced concerns that the property could be a residential care home.

In addition, Great Ayton Parish Council opposed the idea and said the plan was out of date - it did not show a new development opposite or 5 Easby Lane.

However, a letter of support for the applicant, Mrs A Miller, was submitted by an agent with the planning application. The agent said the new home was designed especially for the needs of a family with a disabled child. Demolition of the bungalow was based purely on economic and design grounds, it stated.

At its meeting last Thursday, Hambleton planning committee said the proposed house was contrary to guidelines. Its height, size and bulk would spoil the appearance of Easby Lane, and the new home would overlook existing bungalows, leading to a loss of privacy.