A FRIENDS group has been set up and formalised with the aim of saving a Darlington playing field from development.

The Friends of Bellburn Lane Field will co ordinate all its efforts in presenting a stronger united front in opposing council and developer plans for housing on the Bellburn playing field.

The field has been earmarked for development in Darlington Council’s Making and Growing Places plan outlining the borough’s future housing need, but campaigners say it is a much-needed green space in an increasingly populated area of town.

A friends group first tried to launch in the summer but was affected by the closure of voluntary sector organisation Evolution, but now the group has re-formed and is planning to distribute leaflets next week.

The action comes after developers Keepmoat expressed an interest in building houses on the site last month, although both Darlington Council and Keepmoat stress that no decisions have been made.

Residents are concerned that up to 70 houses could be built on the well-used field and a public consultation is due to take place later this month.

The Friends intend to highlight development plans to the wider community and details of how to become a member and get involved will be announced via Facebook, twitter and at www.bellburngreenspace.btck.co.uk