AN APPLICATION to build two blocks of flats in the West End of Darlington may be approved next week - despite 20 letters of objection.

Bannatyne Fitness wants to demolish its old offices at 55 Cleveland Terrace and replace them with a total of 18 flats.

One would be two-storey and the others two-storey with accommodation in the roof space.

Objectors claim this to be an over-development of the site and would be detrimental to surrounding properties.

But officers believe the scheme is acceptable and point to policies which state priority should be given to re-using previously developed land within urban areas to provide housing.

They say the proposed density is no different to other recent flat schemes in the town.

Planners also say there would be no loss of privacy to residents in Greencroft Close as windows would not look directly on to them.

Where there may be a risk ,it is recommended that windows are glazed with frosted glass and would always remain so.

The development would have an improved access with electronic gates from Cleveland Terrace.

The central area would provide parking for 20 vehicles and include covered cycle storage.

On Wednesday officers will recommend approval although the decision rests with councillors.

* The committee will consider a detailed application from Persimmon Homes to build 35 homes on the former Tinsley Works site off Neasham Road.

Members are recommended to allow officers to approve the scheme subject to a section 106 agreement in which the developers make a financial contribution to improve existing play areas.