The hearing followed disagreement over the authority's stance on barns

A national park body has adjourned indefinitely a hearing into the conduct of one of its members.

Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority member John Blackie faced allegations he had failed to treat others with courtesy and conducted himself in a manner which could reasonably be regarded as bringing the authority or his office as a member into disrepute.

But the authority’s standards committee, meeting today, decided to adjourn the hearing indefinitely.

Former member Ann Brooks made the allegations and an investigation by independent solicitor John Lawrence found there was a case to answer.

The hearing followed disagreement over the Yorkshire Dales authority’s opposition to the relaxation of planning constraints on barn conversions. Councillor Blackie, Independent leader of Richmondshire District Council, was in favour of easing the rules.

He accused some members of the authority of leading a politically motivated campaign against him.

Chairman Peter Charlesworth: 'No decision one way or the other'. Photo: YDNPA

After today’s decision, authority chairman Peter Charlesworth said: “It was agreed by all parties on reflection not to proceed to a hearing on the basis that Mr Blackie acknowledges that his allegations of political motivation and conspiracy were wrong.

“No decision will be made one way or another.

“The further action is a joint resolve between all concerned to work together to meet the challenges that face the national park and its communities in the future.

“I would like to add personally, particularly since the rural summit last week, that it is essential that we all work in harmony together to do our best for the national park and the communities in the Dales.”

Mr Blackie said he accepted the statement and added: “I, in my various public service roles, will do my absolute best to deliver outcomes that are favourable to local communities and the Dales.”

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles upheld the park authority’s stance on barn conversions, dismissing and appeal by Richmondshire District Council and North Yorkshire County Council.