DEVELOPERS have been dealt a blow to their hopes of building 12 new homes in a Ryedale village.

Accent Foundation Ltd’s proposals for the scheme in Weaverthorpe, near Malton, will be debated by members of Ryedale District Council’s planning committee next Tuesday, but have been recommended for refusal.

The company wants to demolish a house which currently stands on the site at the rear of Rarey Farm, in Main Street, and build two four-bedroom, six three-bedroom and four two-bedroom homes.

However, planners say the development should not go ahead because the land lies within a flood zone and other sites would be “preferable” for housing schemes.

In a report which will go before next week’s meeting, planning officer Rachel Smith said there were also concerns about the “excessive scale and bulk” of the houses affecting local residents.

The developers have said the scheme would be a “logical” addition to the built-up area which has emerged around Weaverthorpe and would help the council meet housing demand in Ryedale.