A DEVELOPER was questioned by angry residents last night over plans to build more homes on Europe's largest housing estate.

Homeowners have called for an end to builders adding more homes to Ingleby Barwick, near Stockton, following another planning application submitted to Stockton Borough Council.

Developer David Weatherall wants to sell off land for 19 self-build homes and work with the council to create a country park and nature reserve on adjoining land.

Residents last night attended a heated public meeting with Mr Weatherall to discuss the plans.

They argued that the area of green space would destroy untouched habitats of various animals and said that the land, which backs on to the River Tees, is highlighted as an area at risk from flooding.

Mr Weatherall, who estimates the development will generate a £3m profit, said: "I don't think anyone will disagree with me that Ingleby Barwick needs a country park.

"I am only here to develop the land. The council wants a country park, but the residents don't want the houses. I am trying to do my best for the area, and this is how I see it."

Residents said heavy traffic already makes their lives a misery and argued that another 19 houses would cause further disruption and a country park would attract even more cars to the area.

Retired police officer John Harrison, who lives in Newgale Close, said: "We were told that there would be no development here for the next ten years, and when we moved here, we got a planning application notice from the council.

"Residents round here will not stand by and let more houses go up in an area of green space, which is quickly diminishing in Ingleby Barwick."

About 90 residents attended the meeting, at Bannatyne's Heath Club, in Ingleby Barwick, to hear both sides of the argument.

The application is due before Stockton council within the next couple of weeks for possible approval of 19 self-build homes and a country park and nature reserve.

Mr Weatherall said last night that the new properties would be at least 100 yards away from current houses, adding: "I think this development will be an asset to the area."