COUNCILLORS have rejected two controversial plans to build flats after visiting the sites.

Stockton Borough Council's planning committee agreed on Wednesday to turn down the applications in Eaglescliffe and Stockton, despite both being recommended for approval.

Yarm Homes wanted to convert 690 Yarm Road, Eaglescliffe, into four flats and build another ten apartments in its gardens.

The council received 30 objections to the scheme.

Councillor Jennie Beaumont said: "There has been a lot of time and effort put into the design. However, the site visit was really worthwhile as we could see how close Croft Road was to the back. I think it could be looked at again and possibly redesigned."

Councillor Ross Patterson said: "I think it is a bit too large, and I think there is going to be a loss of privacy."

Rejection also befell an application by Fairfield and District Association to demolish a disused community centre, next to Manor Place, off Bishopton Road West, in Stockton and replace it with eight flats.

Twenty-four letters of objection were received, many stating there would be insufficient parking, it would be out of character with the area and there could be damage to trees.

Councillor Steve Walmsley said: "I know a lot about the character of the area and anyone would give their right arm to live there because of the area.

"I disagree that it fits in with the area."

Councillor John Fletcher said: "We ought to be considering whether a three-storey building is suitable."

Councillor Phillip Broughton said: "I think the basic problem is that none of the residents want it and none of them want to buy them. They don't want the development."