The Government's planning inspectorate has allowed an appeal on a scheme to build a single-storey dwelling at the rear of York Cottage, in Church Street, Helmsley.

Permission had been refused by the North York Moors National Park Authority on the grounds that the long gardens on the western side of Church Street act as a visual break between the commercial side of Helmsley and the historic setting of the castle, and should be kept open.

But the inspector, James Wilson, said the development would preserve the character and appearance of the Helmsley conservation area, and as a result he was allowing the appeal.

Updated: 10:54 Tuesday, July 08, 2003