CAMPAIGNERS will find out tomorrow if they have been successful in their bid to stop plans being approved for a second controversial housing development in a village.

Plans for a second 100-home development in Hurworth, near Darlington, are to be discussed by Darlington Borough Council's planning committee on Wednesday.

The approval of the first development, off Roundhill Road, brought tears from those fighting against the plans, with more than 200 formal objections, and members of Hurworth Against Detrimental Development (HADD) have again campaigned passionately to try and stop the latest proposals.

The plans, which come around 18 months on from the approval of a first 100-home development, have been recommended for approval.

More than 60 objections have been submitted, although Hurworth Parish Council has decided not to oppose the latest plans, unlike the first development.

Paul Walters told Hurworth residents last month he believed the village had missed out on money as a result of their stance on the first development, and therefore didn't want to "ruffle any feathers".

However, the parish council has requested the developer, The Banks Group, pay for a number improvements to the village if the plans are approved, including a foot and cycle path connecting Hurworth to Darlington, as well as improvements to play areas and car parking.

Banks considered the new site in its original plans for Hurworth, but did not include it in the final proposal last year due to perceived issues around the land’s geology.

But subsequent ground investigation has since revealed that areas of the land are suitable for housing.

Outlining the parish council's position in February, Mr Walters said: "We learnt that we didn't work with them (Banks), we got their backs up.

"It is worth not ruffling any feathers to get money for the village - it is some people views that money for the village is more important.

"Because we are not objecting, we can negotiate."

Speaking earlier this year, Judith Aston, HADD spokesperson, admitted campaigners had to be “realistic” and there was “fatigue” amongst them, but they vowed to do whatever it takes to get the best outcome for the village.

“Planning permission should wait until the first 100 homes have been built so we can see what the impact is and what is needed,” she said.

“If it does go ahead, we need to decide what we can do to limit the problems and get the best outcome for Hurworth.”