AN overgrown patch of land in a village conservation area will be protected after the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister threw out development plans.

Last March, Sedgefield Borough Council refused planning permission for two detached houses behind The Black Bull, in Trimdon Village.

Pub owner Gordon Wright appealed against the decision, arguing new homes would complete the Vicarage Drive cul-de-sac and that it would improve an untidy area which is overgrown and bordered by a crumbling wall.

He also said the site's character had been eroded by building prior to it being designated as a conservation area.

Government planning inspector Dennis Johnson dismissed Mr Wright's appeal stating that "the essential characteristics of openness and freedom from development, other than small outbuildings, must be preserved or enhanced".

He said records from the 19th Century show many backland areas in the village, including the appeal site, were orchards and most are now used as gardens.

Head of planning services at Sedgefield Borough Council, Charlie Walton, said: "We are very pleased that the inspector has endorsed our decision to protect and enhance conservation areas.

"He also agreed that, if approved, this could open the floodgates to more new build on important open spaces."