DEVELOPERS have been given permission to build 41 homes in Auckland Park, near Bishop Auckland.

Wear Valley District Council's development control committee gave Hall Construction Services permission for the estate in Thomas Street.

The decision has to be referred to the full council for approval because the site had been allocated for industrial use in the Local Plan.

At the same meeting Witton Park Community Association was given the go-ahead to put play equipment on a disused recreational area in Main Street.

The Memorial Park playground will include a children's play area, basketball court and skateboard and rollerblading rink.

Wight Developments was also given permission to convert a former bathroom showroom and warehouse in Kingsway, Bishop Auckland, into 18 flats with a gym on the ground floor.