PLANS to build 167 homes on the site of an auction mart could be approved this week.

Persimmon Homes wants to build the houses on the site currently occupied by Thirsk Auction Mart. The mart was given planning permission to move to a 20-acre site off the A19 bypass, at Blakey Lane, in December, last year.

Persimmon was granted outline permission for the houses in August, and has now submitted details to Hambleton District Council.

The scheme would include 22 different house types, ranging from one bedroom, two storey houses to four bedroom, three storey homes. They also want to build 33 apartments.

The development would be served by an underground sewage pumping station and there will also be two children's play areas.

Planning officers have recommended the plans be approved, despite concerns.

Thirsk Town Council said it was worried about the impact of the proposal on schools, medical services, the drainage and sewerage system.

Carlton Miniott and Sowerby parish councils both approved the plans in principle, but were concerned about extra traffic being generated.

The application will be discussed by Hambleton's development control committee on Thursday.