A YOUNG woman's hopes of staying in the village where nine generations of her family have lived struck a chord with planners.

Jazz Procter told South Lakeland District Council's planning committee that she could not afford to live in Old Hutton unless she could build an affordable house on land at her parents' home, Low Bleaze Farm.

"I've lived in Old Hutton all my life," said Miss Procter. "My family all live there and I'd just like to carry on living and contributing. A self-build project is the only way I can afford to live in the village."

Miss Procter said she and her partner hoped to settle down and have a family there.

Old Hutton and Holmescales parish councillor John Shorrock told the committee: "It's now impossible for young first-time couples to afford houses in our parish."

He said the increased number of retired people was having a "serious effect", particularly on pupil numbers at the pre-school and primary school.

"I worry about the long-term viability of the school," said Cllr Shorrock. "We need to attract young families and we need young local couples to stay in the parish as well. The applicant is the ninth generation to live there. It would be a sad loss if this generation had to leave us."

Cllr Philip Dixon said he was "very moved" by the two speakers, and Cllr Janette Jenkinson said: "It reminds me of the opportunity and chance I was given 50 years ago and we've remained in the same property for 50 years."

Cllr Sylvia Emmott added: "We need to support our young people. I wish them the best of luck. We need young people in our communities to make them sustainable."

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of the outline plans.