Residents sign petition against Wensleydale housing plans

North Yorkshire Council has received a permission in principle application for the development on land south of Hillfoot in Harmby, near Leyburn.

Up to six houses are planned on agricultural land next to the village’s playing fields.

Maria Ferguson, agent for applicant Richard Stirk, said in supporting papers filed with the application: “The proposed development is commensurate with the scale of the village and the availability services, and the site is located adjacent to settlement limits.

“The site is accessible and well related to existing facilities and within the capacity of existing infrastructure.

“As demonstrated in the information supporting the application, development can be achieved on the site without an adverse impact on the character of the settlement, important open spaces, heritage assets, or the character of the landscape.”

The agent notes that the council is currently unable to demonstrate a five-year land supply for new housing, as required by the government.

She adds: “If there is harm arising, this must be balanced against housing need and the significant social and economic benefits of delivering new housing with the presumption in favour of sustainable development applying.”

But the petition submitted to the council states that the proposed site is not allocated for housing in the current local plan and had not been identified for development in a recent call for sites for the next plan.

In its response, Harmby Parish Council says the site lies beyond the established development line for Harmby.

It adds: “As such, the proposal represents encroachment into open countryside, contrary to established planning policy intended to protect rural character and prevent unsustainable expansion.

“Harmby is predominantly characterised by bungalows and modest dwellings.

“The introduction of up to six larger properties would create a stark visual mismatch and erode the existing character of the village. The development would appear prominent and intrusive, particularly in views approaching and within the village.”

More than 20 people have also written to the council to object to the application.

One member of the public said: “This proposal is clearly out of keeping with the character of Harmby.

“The site is unsuitable for housing as it would spoil the street scene and ruin the magnificent view towards Middleham currently enjoyed by residents and those, like myself, who regularly use the footway past Hillfoot.”

Another resident said: “There is inadequate parking for the existing residents; cars are parked on the majority of the road, including opposite the proposed development site making, driving along the road problematic.

“Further housing will only increase the traffic volume, further exacerbating the current issues.”