A PROPERTY developer who wanted to build his dream home on a medieval battlefield has had his application rejected.

Frank Stephenson had applied to build a six bedroom house in Crossgate Moor, in Durham City.

But he was denied planning permission by Durham County Council’s east and central planning committee, which said the house was too big and was out of character with the area.

The land is at the back of Abbey Vets in Newcastle Road and is currently occupied by a bungalow which is in a state of poor repair.

Mr Stephenson said: “We dearly want to build our high quality dream house for us to enjoy as we grow old and for our children.”

He added: “The proposal is for a single house for our family. It would be our lifetime home and no other use is intended.”

The council received 13 letters of objections from residents living close to the development, who said it was too big, was overbearing and would result in a loss of privacy.

Speaking against the application, Cllr Grenville Holland said: “The site certainly merits redevelopment but not in this way which disregards the welfare on those around it.”

Helen Clark, who lives next door, said the house would overshadow her property and result in a loss of privacy for her family and others living nearby.

She added: “The new house is vast in scale and is significantly higher than any other in the vicinity and is out of proportion.”

Durham County Council planning officers had recommended the development should be approved but councillors voted unanimously to reject it.

Cllr Patrick Conway said: “I do feel this is out of character with that area of Durham City. I do feel that perhaps a more modest build, particularly in terms of massing and height, would be appropriate.”

Cllr John Lethbridge added: “I would like to see a more modest addition to this part of Durham because it’s so important.

“It’s a beautiful position.”

The land is one the site of the Battle of Neville’s Cross, which took place in 1346 and is thought to have involved more than 15,000 combatants.

The council’s archaeology team says the battle had severe casualties and there was a high potential for “significant” archaeological and human remains in the area. It had suggested a programme of ground work to excavate the foundations and basement of the new build.