VILLAGERS in a picturesque conservation area are celebrating after plans to build ten houses were rejected by councillors.

Residents of Shadforth, a small village of 175 houses east of Durham City, turned out in force at County Hall today (Tuesday, March 10) to show their opposition to Haswell Moor Developments’ scheme to build four detached and six semi-detached homes on open land between Church Villas and Rectory View.

Following an impassioned debate, Durham County Council’s central and east area planning committee refused consent by eight votes to nil, with one abstention, and afterwards David Bell, vice-chair of Shadforth Parish Council, said: “I think it’s the fair decision.

“Shadforth doesn’t need more houses.”

It was only last July when the same committee rejected a similar proposal, again by eight votes to nil with one abstention.

Haswell said it had addressed the concerns raised at the time and Robin Newlove, for the firm, said the scheme would bring positive benefits for the village, reflected the traditional form of its houses and “integrates, rather than segregates” the community.

Mr Newlove said the committee had to consider any impact of the development on Shadforth Conservation Area, but there was no evidence of such.

However, critics said the proposal would sacrifice open space, damage the character of the village and was poorly designed.

Cllr Bell said the green space gave the area its character and appeal, the proposed development site was greenfield land, the parking would be inadequate and the scheme would lead to major road issues – particularly as it would be opposite St Cuthbert’s Church, which has no parking.

The only gain would be financial to the developer, he added.

County councillor Patrick Conway said the situation hadn’t changed since July’s vote.

The development would not be sustainable and included no affordable housing, he said, and proposed planning permission be refused.

Cllr David Freeman said the scheme represented greenbelt development outside the village boundary and it was debatable whether it was needed.

Later, the committee backed plans for a new 56-bed Helen McCardle care home on the former Peterlee Building Supplies site on Yoden Way, Peterlee - a scheme that will create up to 50 jobs.

Cllr Sarah Iveson said providing just one disabled parking space didn’t “reek of common sense”.

However, Cllr John Lethbridge said the development would see something desirable built on a brownfield site and planning permission was granted unanimously.