A DREAM of cosy cottages in Great Ayton was described to councillors deciding on a homes scheme.

The designer and developer of the project said the application for homes in the Bridge Street area of the village was very close to her heart.

"I want to conserve the cosy quality of life in this part of Great Ayton," Joannah Whitwell told members of Hambleton development control committee.

But a residents' spokesman had already told members that there were a number of objections to the proposals.

The committee was considering plans for layout of land and construction of three dwellings, changes to an existing garage and outbuildings for use as five dwellings and alterations to an existing dwelling for use as two homes.

Addressing the meeting, the residents' spokesman said many of the objectors were elderly people.

"We object on several counts," he said. "The overall impact on the street would be extreme. There is a big parking problem there already and a number of homes would be severely affected."

Ms Whitwell, of W2 Developers, said: "I have spent many hours looking at the local buildings and other developments seem to have missed out on the character of the place.

"I have worked with planning officers to revise my scheme and bring it into line with what would be acceptable.

"I feel I have produced the quiet mews cottages I have dreamed of and which Great Ayton has been crying out for.

"The cottages would be ideal for first-time or retired buyers and totally in keeping with the surrounding area."

Coun June Imeson said she had no objection to the development as such, but was concerned about "backland development" in an orchard.

"To put cottages in that area is dreadful, surrounded by terraced properties," she said.

And she criticised the level of development in Great Ayton - not every piece of land had to be built on.

"Will the planners please note that we are fed up with in-filling all over the place."

Coun Imeson moved deferment to investigate parking and other considerations.

Other councillors liked the scheme.

Coun Iain Grieve said: "This is a good application and a lot of work has gone into it."

Coun David Smith: "A lot of thought has gone into trying to provide some of the things the village needs."

It was agreed the application be deferred