CHILDRENS activity company PGL has submitted plans to create more than 100 jobs by transform the historic grounds of the former North Yorkshire Police HQ into an activity centre.

The sale of Newby Wiske Hall was made public in March and PGL has now lodged its application with Hambleton District Council detailing its plans.

Included in the application are giant rope swings, double zip wires and climbing walls as well as three multi-use games areas.

There will also be an extension to the lake for canoeing, kayaking and rafting as well as an archery area, rope courses and a sensory trail.

The proposal, which would generate 109 permanent jobs and offer potential work to local contractors during the refurbishment of the Grade II listed hall and outbuildings, will involve creating up to 550 guest bed spaces, staff accommodation and outdoor tent area.

However, a planning report says such alterations “would not affect the historic fabric” and internal changes would be minimal.

It details efforts made to place activity structures sensitively in the historic grounds - which dates back to the17th century - but the development will still lead to the felling of more than 80 trees.

The report adds: “It is not considered that this felling would impact on public amenity, the wider landscape or the integrity of the site.”

PGL held a public consultation last month and although the majority attending supported the re-use of the buildings, some concerns were raised.

PGL sought to address these in its planning report, forecasting a “significantly lower” number of vehicles passing through the area than previously generated by the police HQ.

PGL has also earmarked an area for residents’ recreational use under a trial scheme.

A date has not yet been set for Hambleton District Council to consider the application, but a determination deadline of August 7 is expected.