PLANS for nine detached houses in a conservation area behind Haughton Green, in Darlington, were approved by the borough council's planning committee yesterday.

One resident objected to the scheme, but the council's planning services manager, Tim Wheeler, said the homes would enhance the village.

MANIFESTO OUTLINED: An independent candidate in Darlington's council elections last night outlined his manifesto. Colin Fairman, who is standing in the Eastbourne ward, said his aim was to make Darlington a cleaner, safer, pollution-free town with a regular, subsidised bus service run by the council with private investment. He is also pledging to fight for consultation on council tax.

CARE HOME: Darlington borough councillors have approved plans for a 57-bed care home for the elderly at the corner of Burnside Road and Roxby Moor Avenue, on the town's Firthmoor estate.

FILM SHOW: Spy Kids will be shown tomorrow, at 6.30pm, in Sedgefield Parish Hall, as part of Sedgefield Community Association's Positive Youth Project.

EXTENSION PLAN: A plan to convert a bungalow in Low Coniscliffe, Darlington, into a four-bedroomed house was approved by Darlington Borough Council's planning committee yesterday.

BEER FESTIVAL: Darlington branch of the Campaign for Real Ale has organised a minibus from the market place to Manfield Beer Festival tomorrow, at 7pm. To book contact Malcolm Dunstone on (01325) 362462.

GARAGE APPROVED: Plans turn a sheet metal workshop on the Borough Road industrial estate, in Darlington, into an MoT garage, have been approved by borough councillors.

COMPUTER COURSE: The Cockerton and Branksome Living Enterprise is holding a basic ten-week computer course at its offices at 100 Whitby Way, Darlington, starting this week. To book a place phone (01325) 354084.