A PLAN to convert a Menston cottage into a 150-seat pub and restaurant is cooking up a storm in the village.

Peter Ward, chairman of the Menston Community Association and Wharfedale Councillor Chris Greaves have been notifying nearby residents and advising them how to object to the plan at 54 Main Street.

They have sent a letter to a total of 160 residents to make sure they are aware of the plan, by the Ideal Restaurant Company, and the impact such a business could have in the area.

The letter says: "You may be concerned about noise late in the evening, from outside drinkers, vehicle movement from noise from the live and recorded music.

"You may also be concerned about the inevitable parking problems that will be caused by customers and staff having to park on local roads.

"It is worth noting that from July, the new no smoking' rules will no doubt increase the numbers of patrons drinking outside. This will, however, not only be an evening operation but will be open throughout the day, and it is next to the school."

Coun Greaves said that he had already had around 24 replies from villagers worried about the plan. He said: "People are worried about late night traffic and noise and the fact that it is next to the school."

In a letter of objection sent to planners, Mr Ward says that the on-street parking generated by the business has the potential to swamp' the village and could block access to the school for emergency vehicles.

"Arguments that customers will use taxis and the inadequate local public transport are hopelessly optimistic and are unlikely to impact on the likely on street' parking effect of this proposal. This in itself is in sharp conflict with the Village Design Statement," says Mr Ward.

In a statement to planning chiefs in support of the application, agent Simon Eccles, of Leeds, says: "The proposed change of use of this site is considered to be compatible with sustainable development and the aim to ensure that previously developed land is reused for alternative proposals.

"Given the impact of the existing property on site, the proposed development is considered to be a clear improvement in terms of the visual amenity of the local area."

The Menston Community Association disagrees. Mr Ward says: "The downstairs windows are totally out of character with the window styles in the adjacent Conservation Area. This means this proposal is in conflict again with the Village Design Statement.

"The Menston Community Association after considering these conflicts with the Menston Village Design Statement and other issues are firmly of the view this proposal should be rejected.

Mr Ward and Coun Greaves have offered to represent local objectors when the proposal comes before Bradford Council's licensing panel if they wish. The scheme also needs to get approval from the planning authority.