Builders are required to use Cumbrian slate in most areas of the Lakes, but the rule is often ignored as second-hand materials from Wales are cheaper.

However, members of the Lake District National Park authority’s development committee have now refused an application for the rule to be waived on a development in Braithwaite.

But five new houses have already been constructed with roofs made of Welsh slate, The Times reports.

The committee said this would have to be removed and replaced with the local material.