A BUSINESSMAN has warned he could be driven out of town, with half-a-dozen people made redundant, if the go-ahead is given for a charitable group to turn offices into a house for five young people.

The Lifeline Project has applied to turn the building in South parade, Northallerton, into a house to fill what they say is an identified shortfall of accommodation for single people in employment, particularly those on low incomes or apprenticeship schemes.

The charity took over the former Hambleton and Richmondshire Addiction Service and the building in South Parade earlier this year. They say after discussions with Hambleton District council and others it was judged the best use of the building to provide accommodation for local people.

But David Bailey, of Gledhills Financial Services, who are in the neighbouring building, has objected saying the building is totally unsuitable for a house of multiple-occupancy.

In a letter to planners he wrote: “We have serious concerns that high density occupation will cause neighbourhood problems in that it won't simply be five individuals in occupation, but their associated friends and visitors.

“The recent use of the property as a drug and alcohol support unit itself caused issues with visitors sat on our forecourt awaiting appointments, and this proposed intensification of occupancy will considerably increase such related issues."

Mr Bailey said a private individual would not be allowed to convert the building adding: "We have serious concerns that a small premises crammed with five occupants and shared facilities represents a huge fire risk which would, in the event, have a massive detrimental effect on our business which employs ten local employees.

”If permission were to be granted, as a company, we would seriously consider relocating away from the town, potentially causing us to make at least six very local staff redundant."

Northallerton Town Councillor Jack Dobson said there was concern about the use of the premises, but the applicants had said it was for apprentices and young people on low incomes.

The town Council decided to make no observation about the application, but suggested the police liaison officer is consulted.

Lifeline did not respond to requests for comments. In the application a spokesman wrote: "Lifeline is committed to ensuring that the facilities they provide, use and manage afford their residents the opportunity to maximise their individual abilities and enjoy a safe working environment.”