TWO big housing developments are planned for Crook.

Wear Valley district councillors will decide on Wednesday whether to approve Broseley Homes's scheme for 75 homes off Tennyson Terrace, Crook.

Council planning officials have recommended approval of the private development of detached and semi-detached homes, subject to the developers including a children's play area, a recreation site and small public open space.

A bid to build 56 homes off New Road has also been lodged by Broseley Homes, which invited residents to comment on the scheme last month. The development appears to have generally been welcomed.

Council leader Olive Brown said it would give a boost to the town's economy, adding: "I think this area needs a little bit of private housing, so I'm over the moon at the plans. It should bring some investment into Crook."

Councillor Eddie Tomlinson said: "As far as I know there isn't anything controversial in the proposal and it does fit in with the local plan for development.

"Quite honestly we're delighted, because we've had a lull in filling housing developments. It would stimulate the housing market and give the opportunity to people to move about a bit."