APPROVAL has been given by a National Park authority for a new conservation area.

The North York Moors National Park Authority has approved the conservation area at Hutton Lowcross, near Guisborough.

Planning officer Judith Ferrier said there had been a large response from residents following a questionnaire.

Ninety-two per cent of people supported the scheme and that the remainder suggested the conservation area should be larger.

She said "It is an area that is worthy of conservation area status as it has numerous special architectural and historical characteristics.

"It also reflects the region's industrial heritage and has strong links to individuals who were prominent in the early years of industrial development."

Ms Ferrier said the status would mean further control over alterations to properties, including demolition.

The conservation area will cover Home Farm and Hutton Hall.

The building dates from 1335 and the area had a leper hospital in the 14th Century. It was the home of the Pease family, who were prominent industrialists in east Cleveland and Darlington.