SENIOR councillors have announced they will oppose the sale of a car park to fund a council's new £4.5m headquarters.

The announcement by the majority Conservative group on Richmondshire District Council marks another twist in the saga surrounding the council's plans to move from Richmond to Colburn.

Yesterday, Tory councillors said they would not support any recommendation by officers to sell Station Road car park, in Richmond, to fund the new offices.

A previous report by officers recommended Station Road and York Square car parks should be sold to pay for the move.

New recommendations will be published on Wednesday, ahead of a meeting to decide funding options on June 22.

Leader of the council, Councillor John Blackie said: "It (Station Road car park) is an asset sale too far, as it is required to support the town centre of Richmond and its traders. However, we accept the move to Colburn is needed to improve the poor standard of office accommodation for our staff and the efficient running of the council."

Councillor Wendy Morton said: "The council taxpayers of Richmondshire must not pick up the tab for this move.

"We will be requiring that officers present all detailed costings associated with the office move, together with the likely savings from operational efficiencies in the new building."

Before a final decision on the sale of any other assets can be made, Conservatives say they would call for an appraisal by an independent financial property consultant of all options available.

The Tories said none of the assets would be sold until the appraisal has been debated.