RESIDENTS are urging councillors to reject plans for a dormer bungalow at nearby allotments.

Residents of Co-operative Terrace, Stanley Crook, said if the application is approved it would cause more traffic problems in the narrow streets behind their houses.

Winifred Ayre, 85, said 22 of her neighbours were objecting to the proposals because of problems with access and because the building would alter the landscape.

She said: "We have district plans that say there is a covenant on the land for 20 years which says that the land should be used for allotments or the building of a garage.

"This was only signed five years ago."

Mrs Ayre, who has lived in the street for more than 40 years, said the proposed entrance to the home would be opposite her garage.

She said: "What chance do I have to exit my car or indeed to re-enter. Am I to be a prisoner in my own home for my last few remaining years.

"Myself and a neighbour have not been sleeping or eating because of this. It is making us ill."

Despite the local objections about access, a Wear Valley District Council planning report states that there are no objections from the highway authority and the home has been recommended for approval.

It will be discussed at a meeting of the council's development control committee on Thursday, in Crook Civic Centre, at 6pm.