PLANS for a new riot training site have been approved by councillors despite objections from residents.

Derwentside District Council's development control committee agreed to the change of use of the former Compass Caravan site, in Langley Park, to a training facility for Durham Police public support units (PSUs).

The proposals include kennelling up to 40 dogs.

Four letters of objection were sent to the council.

Greg Haynes, of nearby Railway Street, Langley Park, told the committee he feared noise and disturbance from the exercises and the dogs.

He said: "We feel that there must be more appropriate locations for such a training site and dog kennels, than as part of the village."

But police have moved to allay fears saying the their kennels would be soundproofed - and that no dog training will take place on the site.

Ward councillor Gordon Coulson said: "The police have done all they could to allay fears. The site is on an industrial estate where we have been plagued by anti-social behaviour by youths.

"The police presence would help address the problems."

Durham Police have said they are not committed to the site, but are considering it as one of a number of options.