A PLANNING application to a replace a community woodland with a factory and showroom is being recommended for approval - despite objections from environmentalist David Bellamy.

The eminent conservationist backed the campaign to save three acres of Watling Wood in Leadgate, near Consett, which he planted with school children in the early 90s.

Gary Hall Double Glazing and Conservatories, of Blackhill, has submitted an application to remove the trees so the business can expand into new premises.

The firm has spent £25,000 drawing up plans, which have been recommended for approval by Derwentside District Council.

Area planning officer Graham Blakey is advising members of the development control committee to approve the scheme when it meets at Consett Civic Centre on Thursday.

He said: "The designation of the site encourages the presence of this type of development and there are no concerns over the design and appearance of the proposed scheme."

The plan involves the creation of the 930 square metre single storey factory unit surrounded by a 2.4m security fence as well as access roads and lighting columns.

The council has received a 500-name petition and 20 letters of objection from residents of Leadgate outlining their concerns.

They claim the community has a strong bond with the woodland and that it should be maintained as an asset.

It is said the area is a natural habitat for wildlife in the area including kestrels, red kites, deer, foxes, squirrels and great crested newts.

Dr Bellamy has written to the authority supporting residents and urging members to protect what he described as "a very important community resource in Leadgate".

The Forestry Commission has raised concerns about the loss of woodland while the Environment Agency believes there is potential for the development to cause flooding at nearby Pont Burn.

The application is being supported by Councillors Michael Malone and David Llewellyn, who argue that residents in Blackhill will experience less disturbance as a result of the proposals.

Mr Blakey added: "On balance it is considered that the positive benefits that the development would bring outweigh the loss of the woodland on the site and the potential removal of job opportunities from the area.

"It should still be noted that there are still questions over the issues of protected species and flood risk from the site and members will be updated at the meeting."