PLANS to create a wildlife pond on land at Great Langton, near Northallerton, were rejected yesterday after fears were expressed that it could increase the risk of flooding to local properties.

Hambleton development control committee also agreed to take enforcement action against Mr Kevin Tiplady over development he has already undertaken without consent behind his property at Carvin Tor, on the edge of the village.

Mr Tiplady wanted to incorporate a pond he dug two years ago into a larger development which would be stocked with coarse fish and used for angling by his family and friends.

But objections were raised by the parish council and 12 residents who said they believed the earlier pond could have raised the water table and contributed to flooding in the village.

Planning officers who recommended refusal of the new pond said it was close to the River Swale flood plain but its possible effects could not be established because Mr Tiplady had not given enough technical information.

Coun Susan Latter, who supported planning officers, told the committee: "Remembering the heartache which occurred in our area last year, anything which could lay these properties open to more flood risk should be defeated."