PLANS for fishing ponds near Chop Gate have been put on hold over concerns about access.

Residents believe the planned access to the two lakes, at Mickbelong Farm, in Urra, is at a dangerous point on the B1257.

North York Moors National Park planning officers were due to consider the scheme yesterday.

But late comments from North Yorkshire County Council's highway section had just arrived.

That led the applicant, farmer Mike Cowling, to request the item be deferred to allow both sides the chance to study the new information.

In 2004, Mr Cowling lost an appeal for ponds higher up the dale.

The plan will be considered next month.