A PLAN to convert buildings on Kirkbymoorside's industrial estate to a coach depot will provide better bus services for local people, members of the local town council have been told.

Stephensons, of Easingwold wants to change the use of buildings and storage sheds at Dove Way, Kirby Mills, into a coach operating centre.

The company told councillors: "It will not be a bus station, but it will help create better bus services for Kirkbymoorside with links to services in York."

It said that the new depot would eliminate the need for buses to park in lay-bys.

Coun Tony Clark said last night there was some opposition to the venture, but he supported it because of the prospect of better services which would benefit the public.

Coun Dr David Williamson said such a depot was a necessity from a security point of view for the company because of the risk of vandalism to their coaches when they were parked in lay-byes. The town council is recommending approval of the scheme to Ryedale District Council planners.

Town councillors also criticised Ryedale Motors for felling a row of rowan trees at their open-air car sales park on the approach to the town. They said that a number of people had complained about the loss of the trees. Coun Clark said it was "criminal" that they had been removed when businesses on the industrial estate had to plant trees and shrubs. The company said the trees were hampering its sales and the site was due to be developed as a showroom.

Updated: 12:09 Tuesday, September 17, 2002