A LANDOWNER may be ordered to demolish his home-made flood defences next week over fears that they increase the flood risk of his neighbours.

Stan Mooring, owner of Beck Isle Farm, Pickering, has built a stone wall and earth barriers to protect his Grade II listed property and 3.5 acres of land.

On Tuesday, Ryedale district councillors will be asked to back legal enforcement action ordering him to remove the works because he did not obtain planning permission.

In a report to the planning meeting, development control manager Gary Housden and the Environment Agency say the defences increase the risk of flooding to neighbouring homes.

The beck at Pickering has flooded four times in the past five years and the town was given special status by the Government three years ago following the disastrous floods of autumn 2000.

Earlier this year, a £6.7m scheme was shelved because it was said to be poor value for money.