PLANNING permission is being sought by developers hoping to build 150 new properties in the Whinfield area of Darlington.

If approved, proposals from Bellway Homes would see buildings at Elm Tree Farm demolished to make way for a development that has prompted concern from residents living nearby.

The plans allow for the creation of 20 two-bedroomed homes, 84 three-bedroomed homes and 66 with four or more bedrooms, with 50 of the properties to be marketed as social housing.

The development, on land north of Sparrow Hall Drive, also involves a new access road being built leading to Darlington Golf Club.

In the summer, Bellway hosted a public consultation event after notifying some residents in the vicinity of the plans and planning documents were submitted to Darlington Borough Council for consideration last week.

In a document submitted to the council’s planning department, it is said that 55 people attended the consultation meeting and that 33 responses were received afterwards. Of those responses, two were in favour of the plans and mentioned the potential financial benefit to the council, the provision of “much-needed housing” and easier access to the golf club.

Three neutral responses were cited, which also reflected some of the concerns raised by 28 objectors who highlighted a number of potential problems that could arise due to the influx of new housing. Issues flagged up included a potential strain on existing amenities in the area, a lack of privacy and added risks to road and pedestrian safety.

Those opposing the development also believe it will take up valued green space and that the open spaces allowed for in the plans could attract anti-social behaviour.

A report from ELG Planning said that there was not enough brown field land in Darlington to deliver the homes needed as part of the council’s Draft Local Plan. It added: “The proposals will deliver multiple areas of accessible green space within the site as part of a comprehensive landscaping scheme in order to retain a sense of greenery, which together with the presence of significant open space at Springfield Park will ensure that local residents continue to enjoy good access to informal and formal recreation spaces.”

The potential development has been discussed repeatedly at recent meetings of the Whinfield Residents Association, which is also opposing other plans to develop around the area.

The issue is on the agenda for the next meeting of the association, taking place from 7pm on Wednesday, November 21 at Oban Court.