PLANS to build homes on a village allotment were met with opposition from residents at a public meeting last night.

Wimpey Homes has submitted a planning application to build 55 detached, semi-detached and terraced homes in Bridge Street, Howden-le-Wear.

John Bailey, Howden ward councillor, called the meeting at Howden-le-Wear Community Centre to update residents.

More than 50 residents attended, many opposing the scheme because they say the allotment site, used by villagers for more than a century, will be destroyed.

The application proposes to relocate the allotments, half of which are still being used, to an area further down the road.

Helen Quinn, 26, from Valley Terrace, said: "We don't need any more houses in the village. We want more facilities for children. My daughter has to go to Crook to play in a park.

"I have an allotment in Bridge Street which I want my daughter to use, but this won't happen if the plans go ahead."

David Townsend, head of development and building control at Wear Valley District Council, said: "It is too early to say whether we support the scheme or not, or whether we think it will go ahead.

"If residents are unhappy with the plans then they must write to Wear Valley District Council.

"The plans will be brought to a development control committee around December time."

Residents are welcome to view the plans at Crook's Civic Centre during opening hours.

* A report in The Northern Echo yesterday previewing last night's public meeting made an incorrect reference to Witton-le-Wear. We apologise for any confusion.