A GROUND-breaking project to convert a windmill into an astronomical observatory and sky science centre is set to be turned down by councillors.

Amateur astronomer John Rowland has applied to convert a Grade II listed windmill into a £100,000 planet-gazing facility, on land between Appleton Roebuck and Bolton Percy.

If approved, the observatory will be open to the public as well as university students, school and college groups and astronomical societies.

But planning officers at Selby District Council have recommended the application is refused because of insufficient design information and conservation issues. The issue is set to be discussed at a meeting of the council's planning committee tonight.

Mr Rowland hopes that councillors will ignore the officers' recommendation and recognise that an observatory would be a valuable resource for the area.

He said: "There's nothing quite like this in the area. It would be a great resource for schools and colleges. Unfortunately I've a feeling it's not going to go ahead as there are a number of issues with the application."

Mr Rowland proposes restoring the four-floor format of the 19th century windmill, housing the telescopes and observatory at the top within a new dome structure.

But the Society For The Protection of Ancient Buildings (Windmills Section) has objected to the application, branding it "extremely deficient".

The council's conservation officer has recommended it is refused listed building consent because of inadequate information on what type of dome would be constructed and how repairs would be carried out.

The planning report says the proposal creates "considerable uncertainty" in relation to its impact on the character and appearance of the listed building.

Updated: 09:44 Wednesday, November 06, 2002