PLANS to build shops and offices between Harrogate's new bus station and the railway station have been unanimously rejected over fears they could prevent development of a transport interchange.

Members of an area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council area voted down a scheme proposed by Coalhouse Properties (Harrogate) Ltd for development of a car park between the bus and rail sites.

Councillors backed planning officers' advice to refuse the two-storey development of five shops plus first-floor offices, the latter intended for use by the local bus company.

Area planning officer Anne Smith told councillors the scheme prejudiced wider improvement and development of an interchange.

The proposals also met with objections from Harrogate Civic Society and the town's Chamber of Trade.