A COMPANY is investigating itself after people who live near a £28m development site raised concerns about the impact on the environment.

Gladman Developments has launched the inquiry after complaints from residents in Wear Lodge, Chester-le-Street.

The company is creating three large warehouses on Drum Road Industrial Estate, near the A693, and has applied for further planning permission to extend the scheme.

But residents said the project is creating a great deal of dust in and around their homes, and could affect the habitat of wildlife.

Tim Matthews, a development manager with the Cheshire-based company, said: "The first we heard of any problem at the site was last Monday morning, and we immediately launched an investigation.

"We haven't had any complaints about the site at all. Had we received notice of any issues from residents we would have opened a dialogue with them to address any concerns they have."

Mr Matthews blamed the recent prolonged period of dry weather for the dust residents have been experiencing.

Mr Matthews has urged people with concerns about the development to contact the company on 01260-288800.