An eyesore yard in the centre of Skipton's conservation area and near the birthplace of the founder of high street retail giant Marks and Spencer, is set to be developed.

Plans have been drawn up to demolish an asbestos commercial garage and two residential flats in Birtwhistle's Yard, off Keighley Road.

Thomas Spencer, who with his partner Michael Marks founded Marks and Spencer in 1894, was born in a house on the site in what was Queen's Court.

A plaque locating his birthplace is on a wall of the nearby Woolworth's store in Caroline Square.

Craven Council's planning committee, which meets on Monday, is being recommended to approve the scheme.

Craven planner, Roger France, said: "This area is one of the least attractive spots in the centre of Skipton and it's in the conservation area. This proposed development will be a planning gain."

He said the plan involved the construction of an extension to the back of the Superdrug store, which fronts Caroline Square.

It would improve vehicle access allowing Superdrug to be reached from Birtwhistle Yard rather than Caroline Square.

The plan also proposes the redevelopment of the site for six houses and four flats.

Mr France said the two bedroom houses and flats would be designed to reflect the traditional character of the surrounding 19th century homes.

A large sycamore tree would have to be felled but the public footpath through the area would be retained.

A Skipton Civic Society spokesman said: "At present the place is a terrible eyesore in the conservation area. This development will make the place look a lot better."