COMPLAINTS from councillors about affordable housing on a proposed new Yarm housing estate being like "soldiers' barracks" and separate from more expensive homes has not prevented planning officers from once again recommending approval.

Outline permission to build up to build up to 370 houses on land south of Green Lane was granted in 2013 despite objections from Yarm protesters worried about traffic and overcrowding.

However, a much more detailed plan to build some of the homes was considered by Stockton Borough Council's planning committee last month. It was at that meeting that councillors expressed concern about the small "barracks-like" homes for less rich people. Councillors also wanted the affordable homes distributed among the other houses and not be all kept apart in a separate area. Eventually a decision was delayed.

Now Stockton council's planning officers have looked at the design once again and, again, recommended councillors approve the scheme as it fits current Government guidelines. Councillors will discuss the proposal for a second time on Wednesday, May 4 at Stockton Central Library.

Since overall permission was granted, two housing developers - David Wilson Homes and Bellway Homes - have split the site. David Wilson Homes will build 148 houses in the western area of the site.

The current proposal relates to the David Wilson Homes building, and the construction company has pointed out that 20 per cent of the new homes will be 'affordable' even though the Government only requires 15 per cent.

It is hoped the overall, bigger housing development will eventually represent a £72.8m investment in the area, generating about 60 permanent construction jobs and a further 70 indirect supply chain jobs as well as £7.8m in New Homes Bonus to Stockton Borough Council.