PLANS have been announced for developments to create accommodation for almost 150 older people.

Three applications for extra-care flats and sheltered apartments have been submitted to Ryedale District Council.

Two of the proposals have sparked opposition from people living nearby.

Golden Living Ltd has applied to build 35 one-bedroomed and 14 two-bedroomed sheltered apartments on the site of North Riding Garages, in Eastgate, Pickering.

The scheme would include accommodation for the manager as well as communal facilities.

Fourteen letters of objection have been sent to the council, including from Pickering Town Council and Pickering and District Civic Society.

The town council said: "The proposed structure would be unduly prominent and dwarf neighbouring properties.

"The obtrusive nature of the proposed structure would also mar the look of Eastgate. This is one of the four main entrances to the town and, in the view of many local people, is the most attractive of those entrances."

In Malton, McCarthy and Stone Developments has applied to build 29 one-bedroomed and 16 two-bedroomed sheltered apartments behind Barton Cottage, in Castle Howard Road.

The plans have attracted 12 letters of objection from residents in surrounding properties.

Julia Goodwill, whose house lies behind the site, said: "It is going to be a monster of a building, almost church-like in stature. I think it is totally out of character, placing this next to a suburban area."

The developers said the new building would be screened from public view by Barton Cottage, outbuildings, walls and trees.

In a statement to the council, the developers added: "It is, therefore, very unlikely that the new building will have any significant impact upon the character or appearance of the conservation area."

The third application would see the demolition of 17 flats and a community centre in Furlongs Avenue, Norton.

Yorkshire Housing Ltd applied to build 26 two-bedroomed extra-care flats and 24 one-bedroomed extra-care flats on the site.

Planning officers have recommended the proposals be approved.

The district council's planning committee will meet on Tuesday to discuss all three applications.