A WOMAN threatened to take councillors to court if they approved a neighbour's planning application.

Laura Hanson objected to the proposal to build two houses on land at Rowan House, Alne, near York.

There is a single-storey home, a barn and outbuildings on the site, but the proposal sought to demolish them and construct two detached houses instead, one five-bedroomed, the other three.

Various objections were received by Hambleton District Council from people saying the scheme was an over-development of the site.

Concerns were also raised about the proximity of the proposed development to neighbouring Barlaston House, the home of Ms Hanson.

But an officer's report said it was within development limits and permitted by the council's policies. It also said the current buildings did not make a positive contribution to the character of the conservation area.

Ms Hanson said she would ask to have the councillors'decision overturned by the High Court if they approved the plan.

The committee unanimously approved the plans and council solicitor Martyn Richards said it was unlikely that she could take such legal action.