HOUSES are likely to replace the former vicarage at Leyburn after councillors backed amended plans.

Yorvik Homes reduced the number of properties to be built on the site in Bellerby Road from ten to nine.

The developer also agreed to look at providing a children's play area, extra landscaping and planting to screen the houses from Springfield.

Peter Featherstone, Richmondshire District Council's development control team leader, told the environment committee on Tuesday that the scheme complied with the local development plan.

"It is a good quality development and a lot of thought has been given to the design," he said.

Councillor Wendy Morton, ward member, said she was pleased that the number of houses had been reduced following residents' concerns.

She urged officers to ensure the contractors cleaned up after their vehicles, as residents of Dale Grove had suffered many months of dirt and noise from construction traffic.

The meeting heard Dale Grove would be resurfaced when the housing scheme was completed. Planning permission has already been given for a vicarage near the site.