COUNCIL officers are recommending a proposal to replace a derelict 19th century coaching inn with mixed leisure facilities is refused planning permission.

They believe the scheme at the Thinford Inn, near Spennymoor, could impact upon the vitality and viability of nearby town centres and would have an adverse impact on the countryside.

They also raise concerns about the possible impact on potential archaeological remains.

Initial Developments Ltd applied to Durham County Council for permission to demolish the pub, which has been vandalised and fire damaged since it was last used in 2012.

In its place they want to build a drive through coffee shop and a bakery, with Costa and Greggs already identified as potential future occupants.

It also wants outline consent for a new family pub with restaurant, a smaller restaurant, gym and 80 bed hotel on the 2.1 hectare plot which would be accessed from the A167 and A688.

Agent Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners say the development would create around 141 full-time equivalent jobs, employment during construction and attract new businesses to the area.

They say land near Spennymoor Library, the former North Eastern pub, the old Gas Works site on Carr Street and vacant units in Spennymoor and Ferryhill town centre have all been ruled out as suitable alternative sites.

The council received objections from five parties, including a business on neighbouring DurhamGate- a leisure, business and residential scheme on the roundabout- and CAST, the consortium developing DurhamGate.

They argue it replicates their site which is better located as residents won’t have to cross the A167, it could stall ongoing work at DurhamGate and goes against the Spennymoor Regeneration Plan which seeks to support DurhamGate.

Other objections cited include the extra traffic it would create on a busy roundabout, the loss of the old pub -Spennymoor does not need more fast food outlets- and encroachment into the countryside beyond the A167.

Three Spennymoor residents contacted the authority in support of the scheme.

They welcome the removal of the pub, which they describe as an eyesore, deny it would a great traffic issue and say DurhamGate has been a disappointment so other schemes should get the go-ahead, creating jobs and revenue.

Councillors will consider the application at a meeting of the area planning committee (central and east) at County Hall, Durham, next Tuesday, September 8, when officers will recommend it is turned down.