RESIDENTS voiced strong objections to amended plans for a controversial 150-home development, claiming the proposed new access road will endanger lives.

Avant Homes submitted outline plans for up to 150 homes on a Greenfield site between Willington and Sunnybrow last August, prompting more than 45 households to write letters of objections.

North West Durham MP Pat Glass was among the critics, citing increased traffic, shortage of school places, a lack of amenities and the impact on the character of Sunnybrow as her reasons.

This month, the developer amended its application by moving the proposed access road from opposite the Barton Townley car showroom in Hunwick Lane, Willington, to Moorland Close in Sunnybrow.

The new location, opposite Fairfield Walk, has raised further concerns among the residents of both communities and dozens attended a public meeting at Dovedale Community Centre in Sunnybrow on Friday, February 20.

Councillor Matthew Todd, of Great Willington Town Council, called the meeting after he was approached by four anxious residents in one afternoon.

The mood was defiant, with many residents arguing the revised scheme would endanger the lives of children.

They pointed out how the new access point was closer to Sunnybrow Primary School and metres from a sports field where many youngsters play.

Its proximity to a turning circle, the state of the road and poor visibility at the junction with Hunwick Lane were also highlighted.

Willington mayor Fraser Tinsley said: “This is the biggest application in Willington for over 20 years. We all have strong views but right now we have to focus on the access and it is my belief it would not be as safe and that is the message we need to get across.”

Resident Helen Jennings said heavy construction traffic accessing the site could make life miserable for the community, adding: “Construction will be going on for at least four years and this will mean pollution and large trucks coming and going.”

Questioning the need for the development she added: “Last week I searched for the number of houses up for sale in Willington and there were 571, along with 100 houses up for rent. We don’t want or need this development at all.”

Cllr Todd said: “This meeting has given us an opportunity to raise our concerns now we need to go away and write those objection letters and ensure our voices are heard.”

Residents can comment on the revised application until Wednesday, February 25, at durham.gov.uk