A bid to build a new three-storey building at the heart of a seaside hotspot has been rejected after residents said it would be too big. 

The proposal to redevelop disused land at the end of North Terrace, Seaham, included the opportunity for new bars or restaurants and flats to be built in the sought after location. 

The height of the building was reduced from four storeys to three in a bid to quash local concern, but residents remained scathing in their assessment of the plans. 

It failed to pass Durham County Council’s planning committee for the second time on Tuesday, following an earlier failed bid in 2021. The applicant, David Gill, appealed the initial rejection to the Planning Inspector but it still failed to receive approval. 

Objections included the impact it would have on the Seaham conservation area and a lack of nearby parking for would-be residents and visitors. 

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Located near the Tommy statue, residents said there is no need for another bar or restaurant in the area, and instead called for the land to be converted into a green space/ park-style area similar to the one on the opposite end of the terrace. 

Mr Gill said more than 60 jobs would be created at the site, which would “positively contribute to a vibrant promenade which offers a wide variety of leisure and recreational facilities”. 

Andrew Moss, representing the applicant, told the meeting that the site is in a prime town centre location and should be reused for development. 

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Yet county councillors weren’t convinced despite the changes to the application. Seaham ccouncillor David McKenna praised the recent regeneration of Seaham but voted against the scheme.

“This does not sit with me well at all, it’s completely out of character. We need to consider the impact it will have on residents; it’s going to be huge," he said.

“It doesn’t sit well within that part of the harbour in Seaham. Yes it looks like a bit of wasteland but we need to keep the character of the area and that is our heritage.”

The application was refused after councillors voted against the council’s recommendation to approve it.