PROPOSALS to transform the site of a former brickworks into 66 terraced and semi-detached homes are set to be discussed later this week.

An application has been submitted to build a range of affordable houses on a field bordered by Alexander Street and Throstlenest Avenue, off Haughton Road, Darlington.

Redevelopment of the ex-site of Haughton Road Brickworks would see a mix of rentable two and three-bedroomed homes constructed alongside car parking spaces under Partner Construction Limited’s plans.

Residential and industrial development for the 2.6 hectare site, which backs on to the B6279 bypass, was granted 20 years ago, however much of the area has since been contaminated with five metre-high giant knotweeds.

Concerns have been raised over the loss of space currently used by walkers in the area and that fuel tanks buried underneath the field and old clay pits could cause problems.

Formal objections to the plans have also listed issues over Alexander Street being unable to cope with increased traffic which would see Haughton Road used as an entry and exit route.

However, planning documents produced by the council state: “Whilst the total area of open space will be reduced as a result of the development, the quality of the open space will be an improvement on the current situation where, for example, fly-tipping is taking place.

“A comprehensive landscaping scheme has been submitted which together with the substantial existing tree/shrub screening to the south of the site will help the development assimilate into the locality.”

Alongside five residents, the Durham Bird Club has expressed reservations over the build which could have an impact on species living in the area that are generally rarely found in the North-East.

Existing shrubbery between the field and the B6279 bypass to the south of the site would be maintained to act as a buffer between the homes and the road.

The Planning Application Committee will be recommended to grant planning permission for the project during their meeting on Wednesday, September 21, at 1.30pm in the Town Hall.

The plans can be viewed online via the council’s website under reference 16/00686/FUL