A MEETING is being held tomorrow to try to settle a dispute over plans for a controversial floodlit sports pitch in the heart of a community.

Plans have already been approved for a new school in Middleton Tyas which will include sports facilities for pupils and the public.

A floodlit, two-pitch, all-weather sports ground could also be part of the package.

Although some residents have welcomed the idea, others strongly oppose the scheme.

"When we first heard about the sports pitches we thought they would be used primarily by villagers," said resident Frank Jones, who has represented objectors at meetings in the village.

"However, although there is no doubt it is likely to mean the school can boast the best sports facilities in the North-East, it seems it is going to be a commercial operation attracting visitors from all over the area.

"What many people are worried about is that the village simply won't be able to cope."

Mr Jones said speed bumps had been installed and a 20 mph speed limit imposed to deal with traffic through the village, but the sports pitches could attract hundreds more cars.

He said some residents were also concerned about the impact floodlights would have, particularly during the winter, while others were worried strangers coming and going could have an implication for the security of the village and the school.

Headteacher John Ridley said the facilities would provide both pupils and villagers with sporting opportunities which they would otherwise have to travel to enjoy.

As the sports pitches will be on the school grounds, they would also be monitored by a caretaker who would be responsible for security.

Resident Andrew Woodland is supporting the scheme.

He said: "Fear of the unknown may have led many to believe the village is going to be overrun. All we can hope is that common sense will prevail.''

North Yorkshire County Council's planning committee will visit the proposed site tomorrow afternoon.

There will be a meeting in the village hall, at 3.30pm, when they will be asked to vote.

"I have never known an issue divide the community to this extent before,'' said ward councillor, Michael Heseltine.

He will attend the meeting but cannot vote as he is not a committee member.