A CONTROVERSIAL proposal to build giant polytunnels in Heighington will be considered by planning councillors next week.

Darlington Borough Council has received 113 letters and a petition with 93 signatures from villagers objecting to the application to build four tunnels on land at Page Farm.

The proposed tunnels would measure almost 4m in height, 32m in width and range in length from 51m to 80m.

One letter was received expressing support for the plans on the basis that diverse agricultural projects help to maintain employment in the countryside.

Darlington's planning committee meeting will consider the application on Wednesday of next week.

Planning officers recommend the committee refuses the proposal on the grounds that the size, scale and general appearance of the tunnels do not visually fit in with existing buildings, and that they would detract from the character of the open countryside.