Scrubland next to the Leeds-Liverpool canal in Skipton, once used to store caravans, is to be developed for housing.

Craven councillors on the economic and development committee have agreed to allow 25 houses to be built on the plot off Broughton Grove.

And on the estate they want homes for single young people, first-time buyers and low income families.

Craven Councillor Janet Gott said: "The committee was in full agreement. It is an ideal location for development within the Skipton town boundary.''

Council officers have drawn up a detailed planning brief as a guideline for potential developers. A Council spokesman said: "There is a continuing need for housing in this part of Skipton to meet the needs of low income families, first-time buyers and young single people.

"A survey in February 1996 indicated there were 47 caravans on the site but another survey last year revealed they had all gone.''

He said officers had called for the creation of a recreation area on the site because there was a lack of play space in the area.

Access to the site would be along Marton Grove and not Broughton Grove which North Yorkshire County Council highway chiefs said was not suitable.

It was hoped a pedestrian link with the canal towpath could be provided at the northern end of the land.

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