PLANS to build a crematorium near an East Durham beauty spot look set to win approval despite local opposition.

People in the area currently have to use the crematoria at Sunderland, Hartlepool and Durham but Dignity Plc wants to build one between the village of Castle Eden and Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve.

The company says there is a need for the facility in the area and it has examined many alternative sites before choosing Castle Eden as the most suitable.

But Durham County Council has received 120 objections and a 50-name petition.

Among the objectors are local councilors and Easington’s Labour MP, Grahame Morris, the Council for the Protection of Rural England and the local golf club.

Despite that, planning officials are recommending the county planning committee grant planning permission when it considers the application on Tuesday (April 1).

Objectors fear the crematorium will create traffic problems and have a negative impact on Castle Eden Dene, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and the Castle Eden conservation area.

Some are also concerned about emissions and the impact on the price of their homes.

Senior planning officer Steve France says in a report to the committee: “The development of a crematorium on the edge of Castle Eden will inevitably be contentious, as the village lies within a conservation area and associated historic park, and has both nationally and internationally recognised ecological sites nearby in Castle Eden Dene.”

The development “would not cause harm to the character and appearance of the area”, he says.

“It is considered that the proposals would not have an unacceptable effect on the living conditions of local residents, and nor would it materially reduce highway safety or impede traffic movement.

“The site can be adequately drained and would not lead to localised flooding.

“No material harm will be caused to ecological interests, while safety measures to address stray golf balls can be addressed by an appropriate planning condition.”

Mr France adds that with “due weight” given to the wider benefits of a crematorium in East Durham there is “no reason” to refuse permission.