A SIX-foot stone wall near a neighbour's bedroom window would be an appalling intrusion into their lives, councillors have ruled.

Although planners had recommended approval of the project at the Kennels, Gilling West, near Richmond, the district council's environment committee felt the neighbours should not have to put up with the proposed wall.

Neil Campbell, whose parents bought the neighbouring house 27 years ago, told the committee that their bedroom would resemble a prison if the wall was built. There were also concerns about traffic at an access point which was already dangerous and close to the brow of a hill.

Councillor John Blackie said: "This wall would be dreadful, absolutely awful. If we can't come up with something better than that we must refuse permission. I think there is the possibility to develop the farm building but in a way that does not impinge on the amenity and privacy of the neighbours."

Councillor Sylvia Golding said she shared the neighbours' concerns about safety.

North Yorkshire County Council highways department had confirmed that the access did not provide sufficient visibility but realigning the entrance would bring it to an acceptable standard.