WHILE the conversion of a derelict mill into 16 apartments has been welcomed by councillors, the stumbling block of a raised deck for car parking has led to deferment of a planning application.

The Building Renaissance Company, of Cumbria, felt its latest proposal regarding the grade II listed Thorngate Mill was sympathetic to its Barnard Castle setting. However, following a site visit before Wednesday's meeting, Teesdale District Council planning south committee was unanimously opposed to the decking, which would allow parking for 16 vehicles.

Coun John Watson said the mill was one of the most crucial proposals in Barnard Castle.

"It was known that adapting it would throw up considerable difficulties," he added.

Other members also wished to see the mill renovated, but the pier was an unacceptable part of the plan.

However, Ian Self, head of planning at Ward Hadaway, representing the applicant, said the mill proposal was sympathetic. There would be some impact on residents, but that must be weighed against bringing the building back into use.

Coun Newton Wood claimed the decking would attract "undesirables".

On the way to a site visit he and a colleague had counted 30 spare parking spaces within 50m of the mill. He suggested some research be done as to whether disc parking would be feasible near the mill.

Coun William Salvin, who declared an interest, suggested deferment to allow further negotiations with the applicant.

Planning officer Trevor Watson, who had recommended approval, said there was merit in deferment to afford further dialogue. This was agreed.

John Finney, a resident of nearby Mill Court, expressed concerns about sewage, rats inhabiting the building and the siting of dustbins. He was also in favour of an independent structural survey to show whether parking could be accommodated in the basement.

Mr Watson offered to pass on concerns about rats to the environmental health department