RESIDENTS are opposing plans to build a housing estate in the grounds of a Victorian villa.

Copsewood, off The Avenue, in Eaglescliffe, dates back to 1860 and had been owned by generations of the same family until earlier this year.

After purchasing the huge house in March, the new owners have submitted plans to Stockton Borough Council to demolish three outhouses and two garages.

Seven detached homes will then be built, with garages and associated parking.

Planning officers have received more than 50 letters from residents, with the majority objecting to the development.

Retired computer expert Richard Leach told how he fears for the safety of children attending nearby Teesside High School.

He said: "The Avenue is so narrow, we've had problems with emergency services getting through.

"With the prospect of another seven families, the traffic will be unbearable. It already takes fours turns of the traffic lights to release vehicles from The Avenue."

The development also involves the removal of protected and unprotected trees.

The property has only ever had one previous owner. The Brown family started a local manufacturing company and generations of the same family have lived in the house ever since.

Objection letters raise points including loss of heritage and impact on protected species.

A survey was carried out at the site and found no badger setts.

Other similar surveys have been carried out in respect of bats and deer.

This is the third application to go before planning officers.

One application looked for the erection of 14 two-storey town houses and 33 three-storey apartments, with the demolition of the original house.

Another was a revised application for 13 houses and 30 apartments. Both were withdrawn.

In a planning report for the committee meeting, ward councillor John Fletcher said: "I am pleased that the current application preserves the main house and coaching house, which form important parts of the Victorian built environment in this part of Eaglescliffe."

The outline planning application will be heard at a committee meeting next Wednesday, at Stockton Library, Church Road.