PLANS to alter a pub in the oldest area of Skipton have failed to find favour with local councillors.

Skipton Town Council's planning committee looked at the proposals for the Royal Oak on Monday.

Councillors raised no objections to making internal alterations to the ground floor of the Water Street pub, but they were against redecorating the exterior of the building and installing a new sign and lighting.

"The proposed redecoration is not in sympathy with this area - the oldest part of the town.

"The new signage, particularly the proposed name The Gatehouse is a misnomer and inappropriate as there is an existing building bearing this name at Skipton Castle which has been so named since 1310.

"The proposed lighting is not in keeping with the building's status within the conservation area and is excessive.

"The proposed two stone colour scheme of cream and sage green detracts from the overall appearance of the listed building," they said.