A VILLAGE has had a bid to make it a designated conservation area rejected by councillors.

Low Coniscliffe and Merrybent Parish Council had put in a request for the former to be considered for conservation area status.

But Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet members rejected the bid on Tuesday evening after deciding that Low Coniscliffe does not have the “special architectural or historic interest” to justify such a designation.

The decision was also made to ensure the concept of conservation is not “devalued” through the designation of areas that lack that “special interest”.

The parish council had based their bid on the "history and heritage" of Low Coniscliffe and had presented a 36 page document to cabinet outlining their case.

According to the document, there was "substantial grounds" for the status to be granted, which would protect the village for "future generations".

Peter Clark, spokesperson for the bid, said the report was “driven by the passion of the local community” and described the final decision as "diabolical".

“We have buildings that are between 200 and 300 years old, and a range of walls showcasing a rustic appearance.

“In terms of architecture there is the original pub and school house, and 17th century farm houses that are still occupied today.

“Very few boroughs of Darlington date back hundreds of years - I am a big believer in maintain the history and the valuable asset this is to Darlington.

"We are trying to protect heritage and history of the farming community for future generations," he said.

But Bill Dixon, leader of the council, said protection for the village “will always be there".

" We already have 17 conservation areas, which is significant for a Borough of this size, and we shouldn’t be devaluing those," he said.

But Mr Clark said the fact there are already so many conservation areas "shouldn't be the blame" not to have anymore.

"This village has heritage, history and architecture and community - all of which is a significant contribution to awarding the status," he added.

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said they were "guided by the conservation officer whose job is to look at the heritage" when making their decision.

“I accept disappointment of the residents, but I am not saying it does not have character as a village.

“It is not to say that Lower Coniscliffe is not a special place – I go there a lot."