A NATIONAL park authority, which is divided over its planning policies, is on the brink of another controversial decision.

Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has already rejected a Wensleydale couple's bid to convert a barn into a home to accommodate their growing family.

They claimed soaring property prices gave them no option, but the authority said the outbuilding was not in an area earmarked for housing.

It emerged that the family would probably have been given permission if it was for holiday accommodation.

Since then, the authority has included an extra 30 settlements on the list of locations where barn conversions will be permitted.

That decision has to be ratified by the Secretary of State and, on Tuesday, the national park faces another barn conversion request.

Multiple sclerosis sufferer Heather Coates and husband, Eric, say their home in Gunnerside is no longer suitable because of Mrs Coates's condition so they must build a bungalow.

Council officers have recommended rejection.

A report says personal circumstances should not be regarded as a material consideration in determining planning applications, or for going against existing guidelines governing development in the countryside.