PLANNING permission is being sought for three new homes on the outskirts of Darlington.

Council planning officers have recommended approval for the buildings on Burtree Lane, Whessoe, even though the land lies outside development limits.

The houses would be built around an existing dwelling and a report prepared for the council’s planning committee says this would minimise their impact on the rural character of the area.

The report also points out that the site is bordered by land earmarked for up to 380 new houses by Darlington Council as part of its Making and Growing Places document.

One letter of objection has been submitted which expressed concerns about the creation of additional traffic on Burtree Lane and the fact that there were no plans of the homes available.

The council’s planning committee will make its decision on Wednesday.