A FORMER industrial site in a village could become a residential estate, opening up a scheduled monument to more visitors.

Nestled behind a disused bus depot and work yards in St Helen Auckland, near Bishop Auckland, lie the remains of part of the Stockton and Darlington Railway line.

Now a developer's proposal to build more than 100 houses on land near the scheduled ancient monument could see a landscaped footpath created to link the village to the site.

The scheme, if approved, would also see an information board erected to improve visitors' understanding of the site of the world's first passenger railway, which once passed through the village.

Two years ago, outline planning permission was granted for a residential development on the same four hectares of land, between Station Road and Leazes Lane, for Swift Timber Homes.

All the occupants of the site, including a recycling centre, car breakers and other small enterprises, were relocated to neighbouring towns and villages to make way for the homes.

Another building firm, Taylor Developments, is seeking permission to build 128 homes around a looped road, with landscaping and planting around the boundary of the site. It is proposed that one of three green spaces on the estate could be used as a community garden.

The developer has agreed to contribute £112,000 towards provision and maintenance of children's play areas and recreation space at a time when the district council is looking to save money by closing 30 play areas.

The development would also see Station Road realigned and widened to improve access.

Ward councillor Margaret Douthwaite said: "I welcome any development in St Helens. More homes mean more families, which is good for the school, church, doctor's surgery, shops and whole community.

"It would tidy up an unsightly former industrial site in the village and make it more pleasant to visit the old railway."

Planning officers at Wear Valley District Council have recommended approval of the scheme when it is discussed by the development control committee next Tuesday.

Durham County Council experts have asked, if the plans are approved, for a programme of archaeological work prior to construction because the area is of high archaeological potential