A CONTROVERSIAL application to build a new housing estate on the edge of a village will be decided next week.

Persimmon Homes has applied for planning permission to build 74 houses on a greenfield site next to its existing Fennel Grove development in Easington Village.

The 2.2-hectare site is already bordered on three sides by houses, while to the north there are farm fields.

Developers initially wanted to build 80 homes on the site, but scaled back the application during negotiations.

The final application is for a range of two, three and four bedroom homes, which would include a mix of terraced, semi and detached properties. Seven of the homes would be classed as “affordable housing”.

However, a total of 60 letters have been submitted to Durham County Council opposed to the plans, along with a letter from Easington MP Grahame Morris.

Residents fear the development would lead to an increase in traffic in the area, particularly on Sunderland Road when vehicles are diverted in the event of problems on the busy A19.

Objectors also highlight potential noise and air pollution issues, as well as damage to the landscape. They also point to pressure on schools and doctors’ surgeries in the area.

However, a further 14 letters have also been submitted in support of the proposed development.

In a statement to go before next week’s Area Planning Committee, Persimmon said the development “offers the opportunity to create a new, modern, sustainable and desirable residential development within the Easington area” and would “form a coherent extension” to the village.

The developers added: Throughout the planning process there have been a number of discussions between Persimmon Homes, internal and external consultees and the planning officers as to iron out all issues and meet the requests for amendments to the site which have arisen”.

The council’s planning officers have recommended that the application be approved, saying: “there are no significant adverse impacts that would outweigh the benefits”.

However, they recommended a string of conditions including a contribution of more than £41,000 to improve footpaths on the former Easington Colliery site and another £37,000 for play facilities in the district.

Members of the committee will vote on the application when they meet at County Hall in Durham on Tuesday.