A POLICE force's plans to build houses on a green open space are likely to be rejected by planning chiefs following objections from residents.

Durham Constabulary has applied to Chester-le-Street District Council to build eight homes on land at Queens Park in the town.

The force says the land is surplus to its requirements and argues that the site is within the existing boundary of Chester-le-Street.

Following consultation, 14 letters of objection, including a 71-signature petition, have been sent to the authority.

Residents fear that the development will increase the building density, which is already too high in the area.

They also feel the development will have an irrevocable impact on the aesthetic importance of the prominent location and would be in contrast to efforts to improve the riverside area.

Further, they believe that the development will lead to the loss of attractive mature trees and cause the loss of wildlife habitat.

Durham County Council's libraries and museums division says the site is close to the site of an ancient Roman fort, which means there is a high chance of archaeological materials of national interest being buried.

Planning officers have recommended refusal, because the plans conflict with planning policies.