THE developer behind refused plans to build houses and industrial units on the outskirts of Settle has appealed to the government's planning inspectorate.

At the same time, Skipton Properties has submitted almost identical plans to Craven District Council for the site off Ingfield Lane and Skipton Road.

Both schemes seek the redevelopment of the large, around 17 acre site, with 65 homes, plus outline proposals for more housing and light industry.

The original scheme, submitted to the council in August last year and next to Skipton Properties completed 37 home development, was refused in February and will now be decided by a government planning inspector, probably following a public inquiry.

The development, described by objectors as the 'largest' Settle had ever known, was refused after councillors raised concerns about development of the countryside and impact on the Settle Carlisle Conservation Area and nearby listed Falcon Manor Hotel.

The new application, now being considered by the council, would help towards the council's house building target, says Skipton Properties, which also argues there are plenty of services and facilities in Settle to make it sustainable.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park, which is just 120 metres away from the proposed site, has not supported the development.

Its principal planning officer, Katherine Wood, who notes that the two schemes appear to be identical, says sustainable growth in Craven would benefit the national park by supporting jobs, services and housing. It could also help maintain or reduce the distance those who lived in the park needed to travel to reach services.

However, the proposed development without amendment or mitigation, could mean a harmful impact on the landscape character of the particular part of the park and people's enjoyment of it.