PART of the old grammar school in Scorton is to be used as a commercial warehouse, despite objections from people who live nearby.

Houses have already been built on the former school grounds, and most are now occupied.

The developer's sister firm, Randall Orchard Holdings, has been given permission by Richmondshire District Council to use the old gym as a storage depot, a scheme residents claim they knew nothing about when they moved in.

About 50 residents wrote to the council, urging the authority to reject the scheme.

Most claimed youngsters playing on the road outside their homes could be at risk from lorries.

However, Randall Orchard Holdings has agreed to concessions, including limiting the use of the warehouse to companies, which would have to book space in advance.