A public inquiry is to be held into plans for a Northallerton housing development.

Barratt is appealing against a council decision to refuse permission for 60 houses and 39 flats at Boroughbridge Road. The firm says use of the land for housing "cannot reasonably be objected to". When Hambleton councillors considered the scheme, they decided the proposal would represent over-development of the site, causing a "cramped and overbearing" arrangement of homes. The date of the inquiry has yet to be announced.

ROAD CLOSURE: Drivers are warned the junction of Cleveland Street and John Street, in Great Ayton, will be closed on Monday to allow contractors to repair overhead cables. The work is expected to be finished by Wednesday.

SAFETY TIPS: The Northallerton branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists starts the new year with a talk on car safety next week. The first meeting of 2003 is at The Lodge in Leeming Bar, starting at 7.30pm next Wednesday.

WALKS FOR ALL: The Northallerton branch of the Ramblers Association has announced a new programme of walks. Members meet at 12 Saxty Way, Sowerby, at 10am ,next Wednesday, for a six-mile ramble around Thirsk, with others around Kilburn planned for Thursday, January 16, and Fangdale Beck on Thursday, January 23. For details, call (01845) 526370.

MEETINGS RESUME: The Northallerton Wensleydale Railway Association has confirmed details of its first meeting of the new year. Jane Bastow will be giving a presentation on When the Railway Came to Wath, on Thursday, from 7.30pm, at the town's RAFA Club. For details, call (01609) 770317.