DEVELOPERS have applied for planning permission to build 23 houses on a grassed area in a housing estate.

Gleeson Developments have applied for permission to build the two-storey houses on land next to Hawthorn Close in Kimblesworth, near Chester-le-Street.

The 0.67-hectare site, which has stood empty since the 1960s when housing was demolished, is bordered by two cul-de-sacs and allotments and is currently used as an informal recreation area and for access to the allotments.

The application seeks to demolish two garages and remove some trees and replace them with a cul-de-sac of 16 semi-detached and seven detached houses, along with 13 garages and 28 parking spaces.

In a statement to the council, Gleeson described the proposal as “a sustainable development” and said it would provide “low cost housing for local people and in particular first time buyers.”

However, 17 local residents have objected to the housing proposal, along with an objection from Kimblesworth and Plawsworth Parish Council.

Among the causes for concern were the increase in traffic and harm to existing residents.

Planning officers at Durham County Council have recommended the application by approved subject to a string of conditions, including a donation of £23,000 to providing play facilities in the area.

Members of the authority’s Area Planning Committee (North) will decide on the application when they meet at County Hall, in Durham on Thursday (Nov 26).