Eight new flats could be built next to a village pub south of York, if planning chiefs agree.

Enterprise Inns plc wants to put up the flats next to the Fox And Hounds, in Copmanthorpe, along with extra car parking.

City of York Council's planning department has recommended the proposal for approval, despite objections from locals.

Nine letters have been fired off to planning officers protesting against the plans, saying the flats will mean loss of privacy, more noise and increased risk to pedestrians.

Richard Mowat, the council's development control officer, said in a report that the flats would be nine metres high, up to two metres lower than neighbouring houses.

He said: "The local planning authority accepts that existing views from housing on Top Lane will be obstructed by the applicant's proposals. However, there is no policy in the development control plan to protect views."