A DEVELOPER branded as mean by a Richmondshire councillor has pledged to talk about providing more affordable housing.

A spokesman for George Wimpey North-East, which wants to build 48 apartments and houses on the former hockey pitch in Reeth Road, Richmond, said the company was more than willing to discuss the amount of low cost housing to be included.

Coun John Blackie, leader of the district council, which debated the planning application on Tuesday, said Wimpey had a cheek to offer just three affordable homes in such a large development.

Council policy would demand 16 homes for rent or sale to lower-waged local people. "These are fine proposals in many aspects and a fine enhancement, but spoiled by Wimpey's meanness in not addressing the needs of the community here," Coun Blackie told the environment and planning committee.

The committee agreed with officers' recommendations that more discussions were needed on the level of low cost housing to be incorporated before a decision was made. However, the development was deemed attractive and appropriate for the site.

Further talks are also to be held with the police architectural liaison officer and the district community safety partnership following concerns that a children's play area, to be created as part of the scheme, could lead to anti-social behaviour and other crime.

The play area would be on a fairly secluded corner of Westfields, with a pedestrian trim trail link from the housing estate. Planners say amendments to the design and layout might address the problem.

The committee heard the development would be a departure from policy, as the former hockey pitch is set aside as recreation space in the local plan. If planning permission is eventually granted, the matter must be referred to the Secretary and State and Government Office.

After the meeting, Simon Usher, development director for George Wimpey North-East, said the company was willing to talk further with the council about affordable housing.

"We agree to the principle of affordable housing on the site, although we have sought to create a wide range of choice of accommodation sizes," he said. "In addition to that, we will provide some element of specifically affordable housing.