A FITNESS centre owner is to be given permission to open a gym in Darlington, despite concern from residents.

Jeremy Grant, who owns Grant's Gym, in St Helen Auckland, has applied for planning permission for a site in Brunswick Street. But residents in nearby Tom Raine Court have expressed concern about noise from people using the gym and a lack of parking.

In a move to ease fears, Mr Grant has agreed to limit the opening times from 8am to 10.30pm and not to use rooms with windows facing Tom Raine Court for exercise. Darlington Borough Council will meet to discuss the application next week, but officers have recommended permission is granted.

BIGGER SCHOOL: A classroom is to be built at Heighington Primary School, near Darlington, despite concerns from residents about an increase in traffic. The school has applied for planning permission to build the classroom and entrance lobby on Hopelands in the village. The parish council objected to the proposal because of fears about the increase in traffic if more pupils are admitted to the school. But Darlington Borough Council officers have recommended the plans be approved as long as a school travel plan is developed to make it easier for more pupils to walk or cycle.

CHARITY FUNDRAISER: A Macmillan bridge drive will be held at St George's Bridge Centre, in Whessoe Road, Darlington, on Monday, at 1.15pm. Visitors can play bridge and win prizes, while enjoying tea and cake, at a cost of £2.50. For further details call (01325) 469785

GARDENING ADVICE: The Royal Horticultural Society is offering free expert advice on how to make the most of your garden this summer. Visitors to Raby Castle Gardens on Sunday, June 16, can speak to gardening specialists and enter a prize draw.

LIVELY DISCUSSION: The Federation of Small Businesses is holding a Darlington branch meeting at Hallgarth Hall hotel next Tuesday, at 7.30pm. The meeting is called The Art of Negotiation - Don't Let the Corporate World Get the Better of You. A free buffet will be available. Contact Peter Troy for more details on (01609) 760624

Band concert: Hurworth Society Jazz Band will be performing at The Grange Community Centre Gala Day, on Sunday, June 16, from 5pm to 7pm. Admission is free.

TRAFFIC LIGHTS: Traffic lights will be in place in Middleton Lane, Middleton St George, for four days from Monday, while roadworks are carried out.

SUMMER FETE: Darlington Victim Support is holding a summer fete on Saturday, June 22, at St Cuthbert's Hall, from 10am to noon. Attractions include a tombola, children's games, crafts and refreshments.

GARDEN PARTY: Elm Ridge Methodist Church, in Carmel Road South, Darlington, is hosting a garden party with a golden jubilee theme, on Sunday, June 16, from 2pm. The weekend also marks the 70th anniversary of the church at Elm Ridge and there will be services at 9am, 10.45am, and family worship at 6pm.