PROPOSALS which could see rural planning controls eased have met with a mixed response in North Yorkshire.

The Government is preparing the scheme in a bid to boost investment in hard-hit country areas.

Tourism initiatives and farm diversification projects would benefit as planning permission became easier to obtain.

But the controversial scheme would strip councils of their powers to block building on greenbelt land.

It is this aspect which worries Hambleton District Council leader Arthur Barker.

Coun Barker says that any moves which will help to broaden the base of the rural economy and create more affordable homes is to be welcomed.

"But I am concerned about the removal of powers from local government, because I do not think that is necessary," he said. "The same ends could be achieved through Government advice being changed.

"If these powers are removed, how will decisions be made and who will be democratically accountable for them?

"We will be looking very closely at these proposals and need many more answers on these proposals before we can comment further."

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, whose department is handling the proposals, thinks the guidelines will help rural areas such as North Yorkshire by making it possible for more homes to be built and for firms to expand.

Farmers and landowners have mainly welcomed the idea. But green watchdog the Campaign to Protect Rural England says the scheme is "a pox on the countryside".

The organisation fears beautiful landscapes could be ruined by the proposals, which are set to be unveiled in a few weeks.

Mr Prescott's office says the move will not lead to a huge increase in building, but points out that the guidelines would encourage planners to look favourably on applications which could create jobs or wealth.

Councils could be forced to allow developments which have "importance and necessity".

Mr Prescott thinks the move is essential so that jobs can be created in areas where farming work is being lost.

The chairman of the NFU's national environment committee, Stokesley farmer John Seymour, reckons the scheme is a move in the right direction.

Mr Seymour, who has had his own planning clashes with the district council, said the countryside could not be treated as a museum. Change was vital.

He insisted that farming could not continue as it was at the moment.

The proposed changes would not affect national parks, such as the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors.

The Government is considering responses to a three-month consultation before issuing new guidance later this year.

* Relaxed attitude wins support: page 7