THE DEVELOPER who had a plan to create a eco-village' on Ilkley's former Middleton Hospital site rejected, has appealed against the decision of Harrogate planners.

Mark Sayer of Myddelton Construction Ltd says gaining approval for the pioneering sustainable community on the former TB sanatorium site to the north of the town is critical for the future of environmentally-friendly development.

Mr Sayer, who lives at the historic Myddelton Lodge with his wife, Janet, and children, believes his appeal against Harrogate Borough Council's decision to reject the unique combined residential and business development could force a rethink.

His company is asking the Government's Planning Insp-ectorate to hold a full public inquiry.

If granted, this will be the third major planning application for the site to go to appeal.

Larger housing schemes for the land by Clays of Adding-ham and later Hearthstead Homes were both rejected after appeal.

Despite opposition to the development from some parties, Mr Sayer believes a chance to fully explain the significance of his plans - and answer any concerns - will convince the sceptics.

The plan combines just 16 homes, less than half those proposed by previous development companies, with space for businesses, reducing the need to travel on and off site, plus a nature reserve to be managed by a trust, and a hub building' for the community.

The scheme will reuse building materials already on the site, while solar panels and a small hydo-electric generator will provide power from renewable energy sources.

By using local building suppliers, the developer aims to cut down on the distance travelled by suppliers and the subsequent carbon emissions from vehicles.

A community farm and a micro-brewery would also provide for the residents.

"There's been massive support in this, very few negative comments," said Mr Sayer, who bought the land from NHS Estates. "We are absolutely genuine about what we are saying here. It's 100 per cent genuine what we're doing, it's really important for us."

Mr Sayer says the company wants to work with community, The company's appeal is likely to focus on Harrogate's local development plan, which points to limited development being suitable for the site.

Planning officers and councillors took the surprise step recently of ruling that no housing should be allowed on the hospital site, citing new national planning guidance.

Planning consultant, John Willcock, said: "Mr and Mrs Sayer are extremely disappointed at the Council's refusal to support the scheme but also at the general unwillingness of the authority to enter into any meaningful dialogue.

"They have therefore appealed to the Secretary of State and asked that a Public Inquiry be held in order that an independent assessment of the proposal can be undertaken by an appointed Inspector."