A DECISION to turn down an application for a lean-to greenhouse extension to the side of a grade I listed building is to be taken to appeal.

Mr John McDonnell hoped to attach the greenhouse to the eastern elevation of South Cottage, which forms the south-east range of the courtyard at Mortham Tower, Greta Bridge, near Barnard Castle.

But members of Teesdale District Council planning south committee turned the proposal down after deferring it from their December meeting. This was as a result of Mr McDonnell disagreeing with the planning officer's report, which he had been shown four days before that meeting. He then fired off a letter to chairman Coun Robin Simpson, which was too late to be considered at that time.

Mr McDonnell had previously had a lean-to on the site, fixed to the wall by four bolts and easily removable. He had taken it down immediately after being advised that planning permission was needed. He was now applying for that permission.

He confirmed he would appeal against the decision. The extension was 11ft by 5ft, and a quarter of the size of a similar greenhouse at his premises that members had not objected to.

Coun Phil Hughes, the ward member, supported the applicant on Wednesday. There was hardly any house of that age which did not show changes. It was a plain and robust extension that harmonised with and was consistent with features put on South Cottage.

"Houses should be allowed to evolve to meet the needs of contemporary living," he said. The site had been chosen because it was best suited to conditions for the plants that would be cultivated. If it changed position it would be vulnerable to vandalism and would also be more obtrusive.

Coun Richard Betton was not quite sure what the fuss was about. They were wasting their time and should support it.

Coun David Armstrong had to go along with the experts, who had stressed the importance of protecting listed buildings against unsuitable and insensitive alteration, which should be the prime consideration for authorities in determining an application for consent.

Planning officer Mr Ken Hughes said the matter was subjective and that was why they had experts.

"You should not alter listed buildings unless there are good reasons for doing so, and none has been put forward," he added.

Mr McDonnell preferred the greenhouse to go next to the wall, but how essential was it in the first place? The pitch was significantly different than the main house roof.

Coun Hughes said the siting of the extension was important in relation to what would be grown.

But, despite his plea, the motion was lost 7-6, as was the application for listed building consent