A VILLAGE housing development in a conversation area has been given the go-ahead, despite objections from a parish council and residents.

Members of an area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council approved the plan on land next to Lindley House, Bishop Monkton, near Ripon.

It means two detached houses - one with six bedrooms, another with five - and a four-bedroomed house can be built on the site, in addition to two semi-detached properties.

The site had been subjected to development plans since 2003. Previous applications had been dismissed at appeal, refused or withdrawn.

Bishop Monkton Parish Council expressed concerns about new homes on different plots, saying some should be provided with a garage rather than a car-port.

Residents sent seven letters of objection to planners. Their concerns included claims that development would adversely alter the village's character and conservation area, as well as contravene planning policies.

Planning officer Andy Hough recommended approval with conditions. He said that while still drawing opposition from residents and the parish council, the development was acceptable in its revised form to the village's existing character.