A 70-YEAR-OLD planning wrangle could be at an end next year if an application is approved.

Semi-derelict land behind shops west of the market place in Ripon, North Yorkshire, is mainly used for parking.

However, after protracted negotiations with planning authorities, Maple Grove Developments Limited is expected to submit blueprints in January for a 30,000sq ft food store, three retail units, 225 parking spaces and 26 flats.

Discussions have been taking place over what to do with the site since the 1930s.

Maplin Grove's director, Jim Carter, said: "As a northern-based developer and investor with a keen interest in historic market towns, we are delighted to be able to put forward proposals for the development of this site.

"The formal submission of a planning application is the culmination of three years' pre-planning design development. We are now confident we have a scheme which is both viable and deliverable."

The company is promising full consultation and hopes to stage an exhibition to allow people to find out more about the proposals.

Harrogate Borough Council's leader, Councillor Mike Gardner, has welcomed the news, although he said there were still issues to overcome.

He said: "However, I am confident, if consent is forthcoming, there could be a start on site in late summer 2004, with completion possibly by Christmas 2005."

Speaking on behalf of the highway authority, North Yorkshire County Council member Councillor John Fort said the project could also mean long-awaited improvements at the junction of North Street and Coltsgate Hill.

He said: "I am only too well aware of the problems which local people have with the current junction.

"However, every effort is being made to find the money to build a section of road to add to that which the developers propose to provide a link with Coltsgate Hill."