THE owner of a Yorkshire Dales barn who installed windows and kitchen appliances without planning permission is facing enforcement action.

Officials at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority are seeking approval to take legal action against the owner of the building in Swale Hall Lane, Grinton, near Reeth.

According to a report due to go before planners on Tuesday, April 8, the height of the barn's roof has been increased, domestic-style windows and doors have been added and a wood burning stove has been installed.

Domestic appliances have also been added and the internal walls have been insulated.

The owner was served with a planning contravention notice asking for a clarification of the alterations and an explanation of the building's future use.

A response indicated that the intended use of the barn was to provide a dry, safe, secure and vermin proof place to store animal feed.

Park authority officers replied saying that the changes required planning permission and the work done to the barn did not appear to be justified for the purposes of agriculture.

Officers also noted that a caravan was being used for residential purposes at the site, which also broke planning rules.

Members will be asked to approve enforcement action forcing the owner to remove the caravan and additions to the barn within six months.