PLANS by Argos to build a huge distribution centre in Darlington have led to residents' traffic fears.

Members of Archdeacon Newton Parish Council, in Cockerton, said they welcomed the news that Argos would bring 700 jobs, but said there had been little information on the impact on traffic.

Argos has applied to Darlington Borough Council for planning permission to build the home delivery centre on the Faverdale East Business Park.

A decision is expected before the end of next month.

But Councillor Peter Way said the parish council was concerned that it would lead to further congestion in the Cockerton area.

Residents have already voiced concerns about increased traffic created from the nearby West Park housing development, which is expected to add 700 homes to the area.

"We don't feel there has been sufficient information as to how this traffic flow problem is going to be handled," said Mr Way. "Don't misunderstand me, the jobs aspect is more than welcome, but it's the traffic implications.

"Our feeling is that we are not being given the whole story on the traffic figures.

"Darlington Borough Council says it has plans to improve the traffic flow through Cockerton, but no one seems to want to tell us what these plans are."

Steve Jones, spokesman for the borough council, said that there would be public consultation on the plans, and residents would have their views heard.

He said: "Whenever there is a major development, a traffic impact assessment is carried out. Measures are taken where-ever traffic leaves that development to link in with other roads in order to minimise impact."

Mr Way said the parish council had asked borough councillors Eric Roberts and Barrie Armstrong to find out more information about calming measures in time for the next parish meeting in August.