APPROVAL of an imaginative development in the grounds of Faverdale Hall in Darlington has received unanimous support.

An application by Leftbank Developments to transform the front part of Faverdale Hall into two homes, convert stables into three homes and build a further 18 houses in part of the Hall's grounds was heard by planning councillors.

The scheme includes the demolition of a Victorian extension to the rear of the hall.

Planning officer Jeremy Smith said: "The design of the entire development is imaginative. The new buildings are of high quality and the integration of new building and conversions works well.

"The hall will be retained and together with the open spaces and the mature trees it should be a high quality development."

Two letters of objection were received raising concerns over an increase in traffic.

A list of 22 conditions was accepted by the developer, including the erection of a 10ft acoustic fence to shield noise from a nearby warehouse, the retention of a wooded area and the widening of an access road to the site.