RESIDENTS in Helmsley have told planning experts that it needs affordable homes and industrial units to create jobs and to keep young families in the area.

Findings of a survey carried out by consultants WSP Development and Transportation as part of the Government's Market Towns Regeneration Initiative, also shows that residents don't want to lose car parking in the Market Place.

The survey was carried out through a house-to-house questionnaire and an exhibition at the Town Hall.

It showed there was little support for a big facelift of the Market Place, which would have seen a big reduction in car parking and the creation of a pedestrian landscaped area and Friday market space. People said the car park was needed for the viability of the town's shops.

However, others argued that it was one of the most picturesque market squares in the country and should be enhanced.

On housing and jobs, 83 per cent favoured the report's proposals of developments of homes, workshops and industrial units in the south-east corner of Helmsley.

Other ideas put forward included a skateboard park, sports centre and gym, the need for a supermarket and cycle routes.

Lord Feversham, of Duncombe Park, said: "Although the survey involved a lot of work, it was a good exercise to provide us with a way forward."