Owners S&N Pub Enterprises made a restrospective planning application for the timber fences erected on stone walls at the Sun Inn, but were refused permission by the Borough Council's Development Services Committee.

One fence was built to prevent bottles and rubbish being thrown over the wall into the car park and the other to reduce rubbish going over the wall into a neighbour's garden.

Planning officers had recommended approval, subject to a condition requiring the fences to be stained dark brown to protect the visual amenity of the area.

But some members of the Committee said this would not change their views on the fences, which they regarded as out of keeping with the surrounding area.

Coun Peter Angus said: "I think they are absolutely appalling and detrimental to Morpeth, especially as people can see them when they drive into town."

And Coun Mel Armstrong asked: "Why can't the wall be extended instead?"

There were no objections from neighbours, but Morpeth Town Council was opposed to the application on the basis that the fences were 'obtrusive and unnecessary'.

A proposal was made to refuse planning permission and eight members voted in favour, with two against.