REFUSED plans to convert a former indoor riding school in Bank Newton, near Gargrave, to holiday lets will be reviewed by a government planning inspector.

The scheme, to convert the semi-derelict metal barn into eight units with parking and landscaping, was refused by Craven District Council in January. It will now be decided by the Planning Inspectorate following an appeal by Alice Fitton.

Although described as a ‘conversion’, the council said the barn, on a bridlepath next to Newton Grange Farm, would have to be largely demolished and refused permission on grounds of design, impact on nearby heritage assets and on the countryside.

The applicant argued that the principle of holiday lets was established in the area and that conversion of the barn would mean it re-used in a way to enhance its immediate setting. Highways had raised no objection to the scheme, although it had raised objections to an earlier plan to replace the building with new homes.