A LEADING North Yorkshire landowner has warned of the dangers to the region's economy and employment figures if threatened cutbacks to local tourism services are approved.

Simon Howard, chairman of the Castle Howard Estate, has urged a rethink over the cutbacks, which he has dubbed "ill-considered".

He has warned that some of the 200 jobs on the Castle Howard estate would be at risk if the cuts are made.

Earlier this month, district councillors recommended a reduction in opening hours for Ryedale tourist information offices.

This, they said, was an enforced move, as the centres were not cost-effective, and the council budget could not support them.

But Mr Howard has pointed to the importance of tourism to Ryedale, particularly given the current agricultural crisis.

He said: "Tourism is the major source of income for many businesses and individuals in Ryedale, and the information centres are the "front door" to Ryedale, as well as an essential component to the promotion of Ryedale as both a tourist and business destination.

"At this time, when the rural way of life is fighting for its very existence as a result of the agricultural recession, I would expect the local council in a rural district such as Ryedale to spearhead the way in developing and supporting alternative enterprises in the countryside."

He pointed out the investment made by those in the private sector of the tourism business - which includes Castle Howard.

A successful private sector supports both the local economy and Ryedale's high levels of employment, he said.

Mr Howard added: "At Castle Howard we employ 80 full-time and 120 seasonal staff. Without a buoyant local tourism factor there is no doubt some of these jobs would be threatened. This would have a major and adverse impact on the area.

A decision on the cuts has been deferred until the council's Policy and Resources Committee meets a week tomorrow.

Replying to Mr Howard, committee chairman Keith Knaggs admitted the decision they had to make was "difficult".

But he said that, in his opinion, the proposals will be rejected.

Updated: 12:56 Thursday, February 01, 2001