CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a one-stop-shop resource centre on Bay Horse Yard, Skipton, have been withdrawn much to the relief of local residents.

Craven Voluntary Action drew up plans for a two storey building covering 12,500 square feet to pull together a range of voluntary services under one roof.

The idea was for voluntary groups and charities to share rent and administration costs instead of struggling to work in isolation in premises around the town.

However the plans met with opposition from residents of Bay Horse Yard who said the two storey building would overshadow their homes, and Canal Street could not cope with an increase in traffic.

Just before the plans were due before Craven District Council's planning committee on Monday, the CVA withdrew them.

Chairman Maureen Moody said: "We want to do everything within our power to develop something which commands support from the local community and hope to work with interested parties over the coming weeks to make whatever modifications we can without compromising the nature of the facilities."

Leader of the objectors Nigel Pearson said he was relieved that the plans had been withdrawn.

"I think it is the wrong place to put it. It would be the ruination of that part of the town centre," said Mr Pearson.