COUNCILLORS have refused plans to redevelop a former social club site, because the proposed houses would be out of character with the area.

Hall Construction applied for permission to build 19 houses off Meadowfield Way, in Newton Aycliffe, which used to be occupied by Horndale Workingmen's Club.

But Sedgefield Borough Council's development control committee agreed with officers that the 17 terrace and two detached houses proposed would be overbearing.

Officers felt several three- storey houses and a solid gable end at the edge of the site would be unsightly.

They said the plan failed to provide links with surrounding footpaths and work to improve access would result in the loss of trees. Members voted unanimously to refuse the application.