PLANS to build 10,000 homes and create 6,500 jobs in Darlington stimulated a lively debate at a meeting of local property businesses.

As part of a series of discussions with stakeholders which finish on August 15, Darlington Council planning services manager Steve Petch, outlined the bold proposals that could shape the borough for the next 20 years.

Among concerns raised by business leaders attending the meeting of Darlington Property Forum were how the construction of new industrial sites and housebuilding would stretch existing infrastructure, in particular the town’s road network and access to the A1 and A66.

Mr Petch stressed that the proposals under the Darlington Local Plan, which will be worked-up in more detail over the next two years before being sent for Government approval, aimed to deliver a sustainable infrastructure and ensure that the town became an even more attractive place for residents, workers, visitors and investors.

The key objectives of the plan are to identify which parts of the Borough should be developed and which parts should be protected, and to set out policies and allocate land to guide and decide planning applications.

The council hopes this will give certainty for investors, developers and local communities.

“Making sure that we protect the environment and heritage of Darlington underpins everything we are doing,” said Mr Petch.

Land around Central Park, the Feethams development, Faverdale East Business Park and Morton Palms are among plots available for potential development.

Mr Petch said that some of the new jobs could come from attracting firms into the town such as advanced manufacturing, chemicals and energy, health and logistics.

If you want to have your voice heard about future planning for Darlington the council is hosting an event called ‘Darlington 2036 - planning a better place for all’ on August 4 from 1.45pm to 4.45pm at the Dolphin Centre. Places are limited. To secure your place, e-mail: planning.policy@darlington.gov.uk by the end of Thursday July 28, indicating the area where you live or work, and if you have any specific topics of interest.

More details can be found at www.darlington.gov.uk/localplan