A SCHEME to build 15 homes on land north of Sutton Grange in Langton Road, Norton, has been rejected by Ryedale District Council’s planning committee.

The plans, submitted by David Tathamwere, were opposed by the town council and a number of residents, many of whom attended the committee meeting.

Planning officer Shaun Robson stated in his report that the development would result in “an unacceptable level of harm” to the setting of the neighbouring Sutton Grange Barn, which is a listed building.

Councillor Elizabeth Shields said: “Some people think that every spare nook and cranny ought to be filled with bricks and mortar. Housing is important – we all know that – but Norton to date, has hundreds of new homes already built and currently under construction. The dwellings applied for are not essential in this special place.”