PLANS to site four holiday lodges on land off Rarber Top Lane, Ingleton, have been given the go-ahead by North Yorkshire Council.

The scheme, which includes the change of use of around two acres (0.95 hectares) of agricultural land at Dale View Farm where the timber clad lodges will be sited, will also include the formation of two biodiversity ponds.

There will also be alterations to the vehicular access onto the A65 and the resurfacing of the access track, and the formation of a new access to Rarper Top Lane.

In submissions to the council, agents for the landowner say that and existing pond will be enlarged, with a new, larger one formed in the middle of the field where the lodges  will be sited. There will be 'an array' of footpaths created on a trail around the ponds which will link up with a public right of way.

It states: "The proposal would use farmland in a new and different way to support an existing farm business, would diversify the wider rural economy, and help a new tourism related business to succeed, grow and expand."

In the council officer's report recommending permission be granted, it is stated that the development is appropriate farm diversification and would support the rural economy.

Ingleton Parish Council was in support of the application.