PLANS to build more than 200 homes in Kirkbymoorside have been rejected for a second time after pleas for greenfields to be protected from development.

Gladman Developments Ltd had earmarked land at Westfield for 210 homes and 50 apartments with care for older people.

Gary Housden, Ryedale District Council’s planning manager, told the authority’s planning committee last week that the company had already lodged an appeal with the Government planning inspectorate after a previous decision by the committee to veto the plan.

He said that a two-day public inquiry on the scheme is due to be held in September.

Mr Housden said the plan had been referred back to the committee for reasons for refusal of the proposal which will now form the basis for the council’s case at the inquiry.

Coun Sarah Ward (Lib) told the committee that the development would be on high grade agricultural land.

“There is low grade land and brownfield land available in Kirkbymoorside before we lose valuable farming land,” she said.

Michael Gray, representing several objectors, said some of the properties would be three storeys.

“Jobs and housing must come together but there are no plans for well-paid employment being provided,” he said.

Gladman’s scheme would have 260 of the 315 homes due to be built in Kirkbymoorside during the next 15 years, said Mr Gray.

Coun Caroline Goodrick (Cons) described the plan as “aggressive development” which was outside the development limits of Kirkbymoorside.

“We want affordable homes rather than five-bedroom houses,” she said.