A NEW attempt to create two fishing ponds as part of a moorland farm diversification scheme looks set to fail again.

The North York Moors National Park Authority rejected an original plan by Michael Cowling for Mickbelong Farm, Urra, Chop Gate, near Stokesley, in 2004.

Government inspectors upheld the decision when Mr Cowling appealed against the refusal.

He has since put forward plans for an alternative site, but the park's planning committee will be advised to refuse his application it when it meets on Thursday.

Chief planning officer Val Dilcock says the proposed development - near the Helmsley to Stokesley road - is in an inappropriate location.

The size of the ponds would be alien and visually intrusive in the park's landscape as they would be seen over a wide area, Ms Dilcock says in her report.

But Mr Cowling said: "The ponds come within the definition of suitable farm diversification, being a countryside-based enterprise which will add to the rural economy of the area.