PLANNERS and heritage stalwarts have clashed over moves to build a new pub and restaurant in Northallerton.

The plan by Marstons Pubs and Taverns Limited involves the development of a new restaurant and pub with a play area on a site on the outskirts of the town currently earmarked for employment use, next to the Barkers Furniture store on Finkill Drive, off the main A167 Darlington road.

Owners FT Construction say after four years of marketing, the restaurant is the best possibility. But Northallerton and District Local History Society say the plans do not take into account the heritage of the surrounding area, and the potential of the site for the future as a gateway into the town.

Part of the site borders the Grade II listed North Bridge and objectors say the parapet wall should be protected with nothing done to adversely affect the structure. There is also particular concern over the character of North Beck, which borders the site, being protected as a wildlife corridor, pedestrian path and potential cycleway. They say the site has important long term potential linking North Northallerton and the centre of the town.

The application is due to be considered by Hambleton District Council’s Planning Committee on Thursday, April 28 with officers recommending the scheme is granted permission.

In a report the History Society says: "We object to the scheme as proposed as it is not sympathetic to the character and sensitivities of the site and of the surroundings nor to the opportunities to enhance the approach to Northallerton and restore local character and to integrate the site into the wider context.”

FT Construction say the pub and restaurant forms part of the first phase of a major redevelopment of the wider site and is a vital key to unlocking further investors in what is an extremely fragile market.

Officers say in overall terms it is considered the scheme will provide a great improvement to the character and appearance of that part of the town.

They add: "The proposed public house will provide an economic use within this part of Northallerton along with an opportunity to greatly improve the visual amenity of the area which has been derelict for more than ten years.”