THE daughter of supermarket tycoon Sir Ken Morrison has failed in an effort to put up huge gates to guard her home.

Government inspector Roger Brown dismissed the appeal by Andrea Shelley, and her husband, Andrew, that they should be allowed to install 13ft high electric gates at the picturesque Priory Estate, at Nun Monkton, near York.

The planning inquiry ruled in favour of Harrogate Borough Council, which originally rejected plans for the new gates and an application for permission to demolish the existing entrance last year.

Mr Brown said the scheme would be "harmful to the character and appearance of the Nun Monkton Conservation Area and the setting of nearby listed buildings".

Villagers who petitioned against the scheme said they were "very pleased" with the decision, as they felt it would spoil the "classic view" of St Mary's Church from the village green.

Coun David Barchard, chairman of Nun Monkton Parish Council, said it meant the village's heritage could now continue as it always had done.

"The overwhelming majority of people in the village signed the petition against this proposal," he said.

"I'm pleased that we can put this behind us now."

The Rev Paul Spurgeon, vicar of St Mary's, who gave evidence against the gates scheme, said: "I'm relieved it has come to an end.

"This village is a gem and it would have been a shame to change things which could have been to the detriment of the community.

"I think it's the right decision."

The inquiry heard how the Shelleys said the estate gates were vital to bolster security at their home as thieves had stolen more than £10,000 worth of goods since they moved in eight years ago.

Their proposals were backed by North Yorkshire Police who described the security measures as "proportionate and sensible".

But Mr Brown said the proposal's potentially negative impact on the character of the village outweighed any security concerns.

Mr and Mrs Shelley declined to comment to the Evening Press.

Updated: 11:04 Wednesday, August 17, 2005