PLANS for 77 new homes to be built on the former Del Monte site in York are set to be approved - despite objections from the parish council and village trust.

The proposals would see houses built on land previously used by the factory in Skelton off the A19.

But Skelton Parish Council has fears the development will make traffic worse and raised concerns about an increase in the number of houses on the site - from 60 to 77.

And an objection letter from Skelton Village Trust says the development is at risk of “isolation” because of the main road between the village and the site.

It says: “The ability of people to access safely the facilities of Skelton village is an absolute requirement and is fundamental to social cohesion. Because of the A19 barrier there is a high likelihood of the Del Monte development being an isolated enclave – lacking its own services – rather than integrated into Skelton.”

The factory was demolished in 2014. Under the plans 15 homes would be affordable and there would also be an area of public open space with children’s play equipment.

A report prepared for the planning committee says the speed limit on the A19 near the development will be reduced to 40mph.

Four more people objected to the revised scheme, with concerns about more traffic.

But Skelton Primary School support the application as it will help increase the number of pupils in an area of York where there are extra school places available. They said there must be a crossing installed on the road.

Planning officers have recommended the scheme be approved at a meeting on Thursday, saying: “The proposed development would provide a mix of market and affordable housing in line with current guidance.

“The development has been designed to modern highway standards to reduce vehicle speeds and encourage pedestrian movement. The proposal would introduce a mixed residential scheme in a sustainable location and is considered to be generally acceptable.”