PLANS to regenerate Stanley may be delayed by six months because of an objection to a compulsory purchase order.

Derwentside District Council is forcing businesses on Front Street to move out as part of a £16m plan to enhance the town centre.

It has issued notices informing six businesses they must vacate their premises and that they will be paid market value for their property, plus compensation.

The council intends to spend £500,000 demolishing the properties to create a wide walkway through to the new bus station.

But estate agent Stephen Bennett, owner of NS Bennett, has lodged an objection to the authority.

Leader of the council, Coun Alex Watson said it could delay the authority's plans by as much as six months while the matter is dealt with.

He said: "It is understandable as everyone wants to get the best price they can get.

"They are entitled to object but they can withdraw at any time.

"It is disappointing as this will make the town centre a better place and bring more people to Stanley, which is going to be good for all businesses.

"It is not good news but we will overcome it - but it could take as much six months," added Coun Watson.

The council hopes the move will breathe new life into the town centre and regenerate businesses in the area.

Work has already begun on a £4m modern bus station, to be built behind Front Street.

Lumsden and Carroll Construction has sealed off the land and has begun digging on the site.

Coun Watson added: "We were hoping to have everything complete by November, so any delay can't be good for the for the regeneration of Stanley.

"We consider the opening up of Front Street very important to the plan.

"As a result of the objection the matter will be dealt with by the Government office for the North-East."

The scheme is being headed by the council's environmental services department.

Director Peter Reynolds said: "We will encourage the Government office to do what they can as quickly as they can. We cannot have the community's expectations thwarted as a result of one person's objections."