More than 200 people packed the Milton Rooms in Malton last night to hear a heated debate over opposing plans to deliver retail developments in the town.

Ryedale District Council’s planning committee voted to approve plans for a retail unit, offices and a petrol station on Wentworth Street car park, providing the Government raises no objections.

Developers GMI Holbeck argued its proposal for the car park would create 230 permanent jobs and bring much-needed retail regeneration to Malton.

However, opponents, including Coun Edward Legard, said it would rip out the heart of the market town.

“This council has turned its back on the local community,” he said.

A separate application by the Fitzwilliam Estate to demolish and redevelop Malton livestock market for a retail scheme was turned down because there is currently no alternative site for the market.

Auctioneer James Stephenson said Malton was one of the biggest sheep markets in the country and said the market was a valuable asset to the town.

But county councillor Stephen Shaw argued the market had become an eyesore and the days of farmers’ wives shopping in the town were long gone. “I believe developing this site would help Malton thrive – it is in the right place and has the right sort of retail development this town needs for the future.”

Cries of “shame” and a slow-hand clap followed the committee’s decision.

After the meeting, Coun Lindsay Burr said she was “very disappointed”. She said: “I am lost for words by what happened tonight - it is not what the town wanted but the political might has won.”