THE future of a North York Moors pub hangs on a retrospective planning application for a kitchen extractor flue.

Jeremy Thorpe, owner of the Downe Arms, in Castleton, explained the position to a meeting of Danby Group Parish Council on Wednesday.

He was forced to apply for permission for the flue following a visit by an enforcement officer from the North York Moors National Park in July.

The publican said that without it, the kitchen would be illegal in terms of health and safety.

When he bought the pub he believed the extractor would be covered by previous planning permission. He said: "If I do not get permission, I can't do food. If I can't do food, it will not be a viable business. I will close it."

A neighbour has objected to the application, saying her home is occasionally affected by cooking smells.

Councillors suggested ways to alleviate the problem, including raising the flue, but Mr Thorpe said a deed of covenant restricted it to the height of the roof ridge.

Other suggestions included better filters and the fitting of a cowl. Mr Thorpe said he would investigate these. "I have no intention of causing offence," he said, "If there are better filters available, I will install them."

The council agreed to ask the park authority if the application could be held in abeyance or temporary permission be granted to allow Mr Thorpe to provide a solution.

Coun Geoff Banner, acting chairman, said: "We are sympathetic to both sides. A compromise has to be reached."