A DEVELOPMENT scheme which has already been criticised by neighbouring residents has been slammed by a planning committee who found major faults with the design and size of proposed homes.

The 41-home development proposed for Aiskew, on land to the rear of 28 Bedale Road, has been met with criticism from the parish council and local residents who think increased traffic will blight their quiet community.

Members of Hambleton District Council planning committee today decided to defer the application due to their own concerns over the size of the properties, poor design and the contribution to be paid by the developer.

Despite officers recommending approval for the scheme, saying it provides much-needed homes for the area as well as 11 affordable homes throughout the development, councillors called for improvements.

Hambleton District Council ward member Cllr John Noone said: “The proposed contribution to the local area of £72,000 is unacceptable.

“We want a cycle way and the original application included one but now it has gone.”

Cllr Margaret Skilbeck said: “The design is not excellent and the two-bed homes look like cages for people.”

Councillors voted in favour of deferral so improvements could be made.