PARISH councillors have been brought up to date on a plan to build a new wedding venue in their village.

Mark Middlemiss is seeking planning permission for a £1.2 million wedding venue on the outskirts of Darlington.

If approved, The Westfield Wedding Venue would boast a 210 guest capacity, a play zone for children and on-site ‘glamping’ huts – as well as a toilet big enough for oversized wedding dresses.

The musician, from The Wild Murphy’s, dropped into Hurworth Parish Council to update them on his ambitious plans for his family’s farm.

His project includes 30 over-night chalets, a security/ Reception block, toilet block and ample parking space.

Parish councillors took the opportunity to quiz Mr Middlemiss about a number of their concerns about the planning application he has submitted to Darlington Borough Council.

Addressing flooding concerns, the businessman assured members that a detailed flood risk plan is in place, and that the complex will be 50 ft above Cree Beck, and that his field does not flood.

Mr Middlemiss went into detail about the insulation concepts of the buildings, and equipment which will monitor and reduce noise levels.

And he also alleviated concerns about the ‘caravans’ on site, which he told members they are actually small units, which will be used for overnight accommodation only, and will not be used as residential or longer stay units. Wedding guests would be able to stay overnight.

The council assured Mr Middlemiss that they will give his project considerable thought at a special meeting to evaluate the application.