PROPOSALS to strengthen Malton's shopping sector have been submitted to planners.

Ryedale District Council is being asked to approve the redevelopment of a former Kwik Fit garage, in Horsemarket Road.

Fitzwilliam Estate wants Derby House, an equestrian retailer, to take on the site.

The scheme will go before the planning committee on Tuesday with a recommendation to refuse.

Roddy Bushell, Fitzwilliam Estate's estate manager, said: "Ryedale District Council planners recently commissioned research into Malton's retail standing.

"It found the town was failing to meet its retail potential and that it needed to boost its retail offer.

"Derby House is exactly the type of retailer the town must attract if Malton is to compete with other retail locations across North Yorkshire.