A BUSINESSMAN has succeeded in winning part of a planning wrangle - four months after his death.

Brent Stephenson was already seriously ill when he appealed against a council's refusal of his application to replace three windows and two doors and install a window and door in three small houses.

The 56-year-old left hospital to attend a public inquiry into the decision by Teesdale District Council, but was too unwell to put his case.

The inspector, Jim Griffiths, agreed to deal with it in writing instead.

His decision, which has just been announced, is to allow planning and listed building consent for the doors and windows, subject to detailed drawings being agreed, at the properties in Staindrop, near Barnard Castle, County Durham.

But Mr Stephenson's attempt to change part of the property at Central Buildings to retail use, so it could be used as an antique centre, was rejected.

Also turned down was his plan for metal railings, four security lights with cameras, and a temporary security fence and storage trailer.

Mr Griffiths said there was too little information about the effect a retail use and extra traffic would have on the property and the village.

He also felt that from details given, it was impossible to say what impact cameras and lights would have on the building and nearby traffic.

Mr Stephenson's widow, Hilary, said last night: "I am over the moon about the verdict. It is good to know that Brent had some success with his appeal as he put a lot of time and effort into it.

"He particularly wanted to be allowed to put in new windows and doors. He knew the retail plan was doubtful and that the security system was unlikely to be allowed."

Mr Stephenson was once a property developer. He bought Middleton House, in Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham, but went bankrupt.

He later worked in the film industry, making fake snow for productions, and ran a boat firm at Skipton, North Yorkshire.