Final planning consent has been given for controversial plans to create a medium secure hospital unit near Harrogate.

The scheme at the former HMS Forest Moor base at Menwith Hill Road, Darley, provoked angry reaction from residents who hoped the plan would be overturned by Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.

But he would not overrule Harrogate Borough Council's planning decision to give the go ahead.

Applicants Partnerships In Care was granted permission to convert existing buildings at the disused naval communications base into a hospital unit with extensive fencing and 25 parking spaces.

The authority has imposed a condition that a landscaping scheme, including trees or shrubs, must be approved by the council before development starts.