PLANS to build a two-storey extension to create a second home to the rear of a listed property have been approved.

The application for the extension to the property in Allergate, Durham, had met with opposition from neighbours, as well as the City of Durham Trust, and City of Durham Parish Council.

But members of the Durham County Council planning committee voted to approve the plans at a meeting this week.

The double-storey extension is for 22A, known as The Cottage, which is to the rear of number 22, a Grade II listed building.

It will provide two extra bedrooms, a kitchen, utility room and bathroom to allow the property to be divided to create two one-bedroom flats.

The Cottage is not a listed building, but is part of Durham's conservation area.

Neighbours in Allergate, including from Hanover Housing Association, which provides retirement accommodation at the nearby Hanover Court, voiced concerns that the development would be overbearing, would overshadow their homes and result in a loss of light.

In a statement submitted to the council, applicant Gabrielle Moore said: "The garden in which The Cottage is sited is surrounded by modern buildings built at various times over the last 50 years so the extension and associated works will not stand out as being inappropriate.

"The building is surrounded by more modern and taller buildings and cannot be seen from Allergate road itself and is hidden by trees to the rear."

Councillors voted to approve the plans.