THE bill for keeping Aysgarth Youth Hostel open would top £500,000, a report published yesterday has confirmed.

The feasibility study, launched in response to the Youth Hostels Association's proposals to close the mid-Wensleydale hostel, concludes a 50pc increase in overnight stays could be achieved with this level of investment.

Recommendations include changing dormitories to smaller, family rooms, improving disabled access and facilities, and opening up the premises for community uses, including a drop-in youth centre, meeting room and internet cafe.

The study, produced by Business Link York and North Yorkshire, suggests any redevelopment should incorporate better security and safety features and use environmentally-friendly design and materials.

It also proposes that the YHA should market the hostel better, particularly to young people and groups.

Simon Ainley, YHA regional manager, said: "We welcome the recognition that the youth hostel at Aysgarth could have a viable future. But YHA will never be able to find the estimated £500,000 to invest from within its own budgets."

If external funding can be secured for the redevelopment of the Aysgarth building, the board will be asked to reconsider its decision.

The hostel, which employs four people, opened in 1951 and currently has 67 beds. It averaged 6,200 overnight stays