COUNCILLORS have deferred a final decision on plans to widen a flood-damaged bridge until they have visited the site next week.

Members of North Yorkshire County Council planning committee were recomended to refuse permission for widening Creet's Bridge, at Kirkby Malzeard, near Ripon.

Instead, they voted to see the listed structure.

The bridge, which was partly washed away in freak flooding about 18 months ago, is replaced by a temporary structure on the Ripon road.

Feelings for and against the widening have been running high in the village.

Councillor Paul Richardson, who represents the area on the county council and is supporting widening - by about two yards - said it was far better that members took a detailed look at the site, rather than deciding from a report.

He said: "It is essential that a bridge is provided which will be for the 21st century. Kirkby Malzeard is a sustainable village, a mother village to other villages in the area and it is attracting an increasing number of commercial vehicles."

Planning officers said it was unlikely listed building consent for a wider crossing would be granted by the Department for the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

In letters to the council, supporters of widening said it would help the village to be accessed by the largest commercial vehicles and take account of modern vehicles.

Objectors said it would detract from the character and appearance of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, would increase traffic speeds and reduce road safety.

They also said the scheme would be costly and time-consuming and that the narrow crossing provided a traffic-calming effect.

The site visit will take place on Tuesday.