A GRADE II listed building in Northallerton is to be converted into an upmarket food store and pub – despite councillors’ fears about ‘traffic chaos’.

The former Rutson Hospital in Northallerton High Street, which also runs around a larger site with entrances in Friarage Street and Brompton Road, is to have its historic frontage retained while some newer buildings to the rear will be demolished.

Hambleton District Council’s planning committee today (Thursday, November 13) approved two planning applications relating to the project, with one relating to the redevelopment of the entire 0.3 hectare site formerly occupied by the hospital, and other relating to alterations and extension to the Grade II listed building.

The listed buildings include numbers 78 and 79 High Street – historically referred to as Vine House because of a large vine which once covered much of the frontage – and will form the entrance to a new pub restaurant.

The buildings date back to the 18th century and councillors were pleased to hear it would be restored.

Councillor John Coulson was keen for the vine to be protected and several councillors said they hoped the pub could be named with the historic name in mind.

However, committee members were concerned that existing traffic problems would be exacerbated with the introduction of a large Marks and Spencer food store to the rear of the site, with vehicle entrance in Brompton Road.

Councillor John Prest said: “There will be cars backed up to the High Street if lorries try taking that corner.

“It will cause traffic chaos.”

Transport and development team leader from Highways North Yorkshire Pam Johnson said she had been convinced that robust management of car parking would be upheld by the store, and that several improvements would be put in place.

She said: “The developer is aware of issues at Friarage Street and they have proposed a series of improvements there and at the roundabout with Brompton Road.

“The central island will be amended to better use the highway space and there will be pedestrian crossings on all three legs to make it safer.

“It will also allow two longer lanes for4 any queuing traffic.”

Councillor Tony Hall added: “This is a good news story for Northallerton.

“It is good to see Marks and Spencer showing confidence in the town – I’m glad to see it has been approved.”