HOUSING plans revised following a public outcry are worse than those submitted originally, an MP has said.

Story Homes, which wants to create a new development on the outskirts of Lanchester, has reduced the number of homes from 151 to 149.

But Pat Glass, who lives in the picturesque village, said the firm has reduced the number of affordable homes and increased the amount of five bedroom properties.

The MP for North-West Durham said the revised plan was likely to have an even worse impact on the community.

She said: “People feel as though they have not listened to their concerns and they have been slapped in the face.”

Durham County Council had more than 1,000 responses to the initial planning application when it was lodged last year and Ms Glass said she had been contacted by ‘an inordinate’ amount of constituents.

Villagers angered by revised plans for land near Newbiggin Lane met at the weekend to discuss their concerns.

Around 150 people met at Croft View Hall on Sunday for the meeting organised by the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Lanchester.

Most fear services are already oversubscribed and the plan will spoil the village’s rural character while exacerbating existing flooding problems.

Durham County Council is preparing a report for its planning committee, which is expected to make a decision on the scheme.

Story Homes planner James Johnson said: “We feel that our proposals will contribute a number of key benefits to the area by bringing new homes to the village including the provision of affordable housing where there is an identified need.”