PLANS for 56 houses in Bishop Auckland could be refused for a second time when it is discussed by councillors today.

Gleeson Developments Ltd have submitted amended proposals for the former allotment site in Dovecot Hill, in South Church, to Durham County Council.

The original application, which was for 61 houses, was originally submitted in 2015 but was refused because members of the planning committee felt the development would result in a loss of open space and it was not considered a sustainable development when looking at all elements of the National Planning Policy Framework.

A subsequent appeal last year again went against the developers concluding that while the site was appropriate for new development they had not addressed the existing noise climate and businesses would be hampered in their day-to-day activities.

The plans which go before members of Durham County Council’s planning committee this afternoon will contain a mix for two and three bed semi-detached and three and four bed detached homes.

The report to councillors states: “There would be small areas of incidental green open amenity space within the scheme whilst a three metre high acoustic barrier consisting of a two metre high fence on top of a one metre high mound would be erected along the western boundary.”

Northumbrian Water and the Highways Agency raised no objection, however, a total of 22 letters containing concerns have been submitted.

These objections include no play provision for residents, the development would result in loss of value on neighbouring existing houses, the existing road network cannot accommodate additional traffic and there are no facilities within the immediate area and as a result there will be a strain placed on existing services.

Lord Derek Foster, of Bishop Auckland, also objects to the application saying the revised layout does not alleviate concerns for future protection of businesses on the South Church Enterprise Park.

He adds there is a risk future residents may complain about the noise from the industrial site, which may result in operating restrictions put in place.

The site was previously used as private allotments but has been reverted to an agricultural use but the condition of the land has deteriorated

Gleeson Developments Ltd said the scheme will create a number of jobs and apprentice roles as well as safeguarding existing roles.

Council planning officers are recommending refusal because of potential noise issues in the future.