THE councillor for the area surrounding Darlington Football Club's former Feethams stadium has warned that the site's redevelopment needs to be handled carefully to avoid creating traffic chaos.

Last week, developers began public consultation over plans to build 160 houses and apartments at the site of the derelict ground.

No official planning application has been submitted, but residents have already voiced concerns about the impact the new estate could have on the nearby roads.

Cyndi Hughes, ward councillor for Park East, said residents were concerned about plans to route traffic into the site from Victoria Road.

"I'm sure that the people in South Terrace are hoping that the developers take into account their quality of life and put in a proper system from the roundabout at Victoria Road,"

she said.

"At the minute, if any of the traffic lights are on at Sainsbury's, the traffic backs up.

"If that is going to be the entrance, we're going to have some really serious discussions with the Highways Department to make it sustainable -not only for residents but for other people in the town."

Plans for the site were originally drawn up by Durham developers Esh Group and P&HS Architects in the spring, but the blueprint was changed after the Environment Agency raised concerns about flood levels at the original access route next to the bridge at Victoria Embankment.

The plan could see a mix of residential family homes, retirement homes and apartments.

Coun Hughes welcomed Esh Group's decision to start public consultation over the amended plan.

"I'm really pleased that the developers are starting this consultation process, it's a very positive step," she said.

"When (Park East councillor) Joe Lyonette and I have held surgeries about the old plans, a number of people articulated concerns.

"However, with a big planning application like this there should be an element of consultation where the whole town has its say.

"I'm sure that there are many people - not just local residents - who have views on this."

A spokeswoman for Esh Group said the plan was a "work in progress" and could be changed before an official planning application is made.

An exhibition of the plans will be on display at Darlington Cricket Club, between 1pm and 7pm on Monday, January 7.