A GREENFIELD site near the River Tees is likely to be developed after councillors approved a plan for 60 more houses in the area's largest housing estate.

Stockton Borough Council planners approved an application from Yuill Homes and Bellway Housing to build the houses on the edge of Ingleby Barwick, overlooking the River Tees.

The decision has enraged some residents and environmental action groups in Ingleby Barwick, but many residents pledged their support after the developers agreed to fund a 49-acre country park near the houses.

Protestors and supporters turned up to a special planning meeting on Saturday to give their views on the homes.

The developers plan to build the houses on a seven-acre site and fund a country park on the remaining land, to give residents a place to walk by the river.

Trees will be planted to ensure homes in Yarm and Eaglescliffe will not be overlooked by the new houses.

Peter Jackson, who has lived in Ingleby Barwick for 14 years, said: "I have two young children and there are no facilities for them on the estate.

"I think this park would be a really nice facility for all of us to enjoy in Ingleby Barwick. It would benefit the whole community."

Other residents expressed concerns about an increase in traffic, safety issues and the fear that the park would turn into a wasteland and attract anti-social behaviour.

Almost 60 objections were received by the council from nearby residents and environmental campaigners.

Thornaby resident David Jackson said: "The types of development allowed within green wedge areas do not include housing estates."

Ward councillor Jenny Beaumont and Ingleby Barwick Parish Council expressed their support for the development.

She said: "I have got some sympathy with residents near the site, but Ingleby Barwick is going to be a very worthwhile place to live with this country park.

Labour councillor Stephen Walmsley said: "That park should belong to the residents of Ingleby Barwick by right."

Council leader Bob Gibson said: "This is a wonderful opportunity."

The matter now passes to the Government Office for the North-East, which will have the final say