CRAVEN councillors have sought clarification over the decision to close the custody suite at Skipton Police Station.

The decision to close the cells from next spring and deal with prisoners in the future at Harrogate Police Station was made last month, despite the strong opposition of Craven District Council and Skipton MP Julian Smith.

But in a strongly worded letter to North Yorkshire's chief constable, Dave Jones, the chairman of the council's select committee questions the decision and the consultation process.

"The committee has been given the impression that the decision to close the custody suite... had, in effect, been taken prior to the conclusion of the consultation exercise," said Cllr John Roberts (Cons)

"We seek reassurance that this was not the case, and rumours to the contrary have no basis."

The closure of the cells is part of the Operational Policing Model (OPM) which was announced in June by the chief constable and Police and Crime Commissioner Julia Mulligan.

Its aim was to "protect and enhance" front-line visible policing across the whole of the county.

At the time, the proposals were said to be subject to 'public consideration' and would be phased in between June and 2016.

In his letter to Mr Jones, Cllr Roberts adds that it is the opinion of the council that the decision was not in the interests of Craven residents.

He also raises issues of possible implications on local justice and Skipton Magistrates' Court.

The council's crime and disorder committee is expecting assistant chief constable Paul Kennedy at its meeting on Wednesday.