A DEVELOPER seeking to build 13 homes in a village near Bishop Auckland says she has the area's best interests at heart.

More than 45 letters of objection have been submitted to Durham County Council over the plan, along with a petition including 53 signatures.

Hazel Kellett, the applicant, is seeking planning permission to develop land south of Etherley Road, in Low Etherley, near Bishop Auckland.

The new application follows a similar one submitted by Ms Kellet for the construction of 21 new homes.

The original application was submitted in March this year and was later withdrawn.

Objectors have raised concerns around flooding, parking and the loss of view to existing neighbouring homes.

Stephen Bowen, of Low Etherley, objects to the proposals. He said: “I strongly object to this application as I did to the recent previous application for 21 dwellings.

“My objections are on the same grounds re the increased traffic and parking on an already busy road and increased risk and occurrence of flooding.

“The building of the proposed properties will also block the outlook and view of the existing, long established, properties on the opposite side of the road.”

Other letters of objection question the sustainability of the proposed development, stating there is no bus service, post office or shop and no employment opportunities.

One resident said: “I have lived here for 67 years and have never known the traffic to be as bad as it is now. Etherley is a historic village and should be preserved without spoiling it with new houses that will look out of place.

“The only person to benefit from this is someone who does not live here and will not be affected by it. Please do not allow this.”

In a statement submitted with the application, Ms Kellett said: “My family farmed in Etherley for decades from the early 1900s.

“I subsequently brought my children up in Etherley where they thrived and have gone on to have great careers.

“I do not farm myself, but my house is in the village and I spend a huge amount of time in Etherley and really care strongly for the future of this village and its people.

“This is the reason I would like to see it developed to its potential that will sustain it for future generations who can share the happiness we have experienced.“

To view the application, visit publicaccess.durham.gov.uk/onlineapplications and search reference DM/14/01540/OUT