CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 39 homes on the edge of a south Durham town have now been submitted to a council for planning permission.

Persimmon Homes has applied to Durham County council for permission to build a new housing estate on fields at Canney Hill on the outskirts of Bishop Auckland.

As previously reported in The Northern Echo, nearby residents have already said they oppose the plans as they fear losing their view of the countryside and are concerned about an increase of traffic on what they claim is an already dangerous road.

The plan would see the demolition of the derelict Sportsman’s Pub and the creation of 39 homes on the field between Durham Road and the A688 near Coundongate.

For more information or to comment on the plans visit durham.gov.uk