THE controversy over a children's skate park at Kirkbymoorside has re-emerged.

It has been disclosed that a neighbour has complained to the Local Government Ombudsman about the way the issue was handled by Ryedale District Council.

The park, which opened late last year in the Old Road playing fields, was at the centre of a wrangle over whether planning permission was needed.

The council eventually decided to ask the Kirkbymoorside Playing Fields Association to plant trees to provide a screen between the park and neighbouring houses, and to have stones removed from the site.

Some neighbours had protested that the site was unsuitable because of the noise from the skateboarders using the equipment.

Kirkbymoorside's deputy mayor, Councillor Gaynor de Barr, said planting had been carried out and stones removed.

She had visited the town's county primary school and discussed the skateboard park with the youngsters.

"They are delighted with it. They are very diligent in picking up any noise and they are aware of their responsibilities by keeping noise to a minimum," she said.

"It has been a great asset for the young people of Kirkbymoorside.

"They are being tolerant and waiting their turn to use the ramps and it is proving a healthy activity and a good character-building one, too."