A NORTH YORKSHIRE couple hoping to build a storage shed to keep equipment for their horses have been refused planning permission, despite an appeal inspector overturning a similar ruling further along the same road.

Nigel and Jill Kennedy's plans for a field outside Gate Helmsley, near York, were rejected by members of Ryedale District Council's central area planning committee.

Last month a Government inspector ruled that nearby resident Derek Rea could have retrospective planning permission.

Inspector Clive Whitehouse said that keeping horses in the area preserved the openness of green belt land.

Another resident, Mandy Dziemianko, is expecting a visit from appeals inspector Sue Rolstone on January 27, after her retrospective application was turned down more than a year ago.

Planning officer Paul Simpson, who recommended that the Kennedys' application be refused, told councillors it was wise for them to maintain a consistent approach.

"I think it's important for us to consider the adjacent site," he said.

"In my opinion it would be better to allow that situation to be tested through the appeal."

Updated: 11:28 Monday, January 20, 2003