Sir, – I am gobsmacked to see Leyburn town councillors have referred the recent refurbishment of the King's Head pub to the district council.

Why? This pub has been upgraded and refurbished by the new owners; it looks clean, tidy and refreshed and is further complemented with hanging baskets and tubs - very inviting to locals and visitors alike.

The fact it is painted grey is no different to some other businesses in the town. Furthermore, it might sit in the Conservation area but people will recall the eco-house development that was approved by the district council despite being totally out of character, so what difference will a touch of new paint on an existing building make?

I also note the whining about a satellite dish on a building frontage and again, this is no different to TV aerials on other buildings in the square and when challenged previously, Richmondshire District Council said these were not covered in conservation area guidance.

Perhaps Leyburn Town Council should spend more time looking at the decision made in 2012 to ensure the town toilets did not become a cost burden to the rate payers of the town.

Councillors will recall that if the donation system did not raise sufficient funds, coin operated systems would be installed – this has been ignored but is certainly more of an issue than some local business owner tidying up an otherwise tired looking building.

Andrew Waites, Wobbly Dog, Market Place, Leyburn