A GROUNDSWELL of opposition is mounting against plans to create a unitary authority in North Yorkshire.

Harrogate Borough Council will today apply to the High Court for permission to begin legal action against the Government over its unitary proposals for North Yorkshire.

The move comes after Richmondshire - the only district council that had failed to take a position on the plans - declared that it also favoured the existing two-tier system.

Richmondshire's leader, Councillor Melva Steckles, said: "Whether or not unitary happens in North Yorkshire is not our decision to make, but we have made our stance clear. We believe we should raise our game, working together with the other district councils and the county council to deliver improving and efficient services to our customers."

Despite their opposition, councillors say they would cooperate and work for the best outcome for residents and council staff whatever the Government's decision.

North Yorkshire County Council is asking the Government to allow the authority to join with the seven district councils to create one large authority.

The Government consultation on the proposals closes next Friday.

Harrogate Borough Council is seeking a judicial review into the actions of Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Local Government and the Communities, who it believes does not have the legal power to invite councils to bid to restructure.

Initial results of a survey of North Yorkshire's parish councils also emerged this week.

The study found that 66 per cent of parish councils disagreed with the need for a change to a unitary council.

Meanwhile, business leaders fear a unitary authority would mean steep tax rises.

Thirsk and District Business Association chairman Don Moore said: "More current district council jobs will be given to parish councils and there will be an increase in council tax to fund it. But will it mean better services?"

In response, Richard Flinton, county council assistant chief executive, said: "Taking on additional functions will be at the discretion of the parish councils and it is recognised that many will not want more responsibilities.

"We believe parish councils have a part to play in shaping local communities, but this will not be at the expense of the council tax payer."