A proposed dwelling development that would build over two hundred new housing in Philadelphia, Houghton Le-Spring is moving forward.

The new homes are to be built on land south of the Philadelphia Complex behind the sites old bus depot, as plans move to a public consultation where residents can give feedback.

Built by Vestbrown Ltd, this latest stage is part of a regeneration project and will feature up to 215 new homes, 32 of which are targeted as “affordable” housing.

The site was first approved by Sunderland City Council in their Core Strategy and Development Plan in 2020, that details similar projects in the surrounding area, including Penshaw and New Herrington.

Read more: Planning applications from Willington, Crook, Spennymoor and Seaham

The Northern Echo: Image of the leaflet handed to locals.Image of the leaflet handed to locals. (Image: STEVE WINLOW)

Residents now have until June 8 to give feedback to developers as part of a community consultation.

However, some residents have since expressed concern that the new housing will place pressure on the area as one claims the community already “struggling” to cope.

One local said: “It’s fine and well building houses to cater for a housing shortage but it’s swamping the area with huge population growth.

“Where’s the same level of development in support infrastructure? Where are the school places for kids? Where are the GP surgeries for the new residents?”

Another resident added: “I am happy to see prosperity in the area and new working people to add to the local economy, but I worry about how infrastructure will keep up.

“I think about traffic and education, and I’m worried about GP surgeries and how they will cope with new residents.”

The Northern Echo obtained images of a leaflet outlining the plans, detailing 2.6 hectares of “open space” at the entrance of the site as well as a sustainable “urban drainage area”.

This latest development will be the second batch of housing built on greenfield land, as Persimmon’s Herrington Grange estate adjacent to the new site remains under construction.

Read next:

Get more from The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus Subscription for just £2 for two months of content

The Northern Echo: Ongoing development Herrington Grange.Ongoing development Herrington Grange. (Image: KAYLEIGH FRASER)

The Northern Echo contacted Sunderland City Council regarding the development, and asked whether the council are concerned about the build infringing upon open green space for local people.

A spokesperson said: “As with all proposals, any future planning applications for further residential development in Philadelphia will be considered against the relevant national and local planning policies.”

The Echo also contacted Kevin Johnson, Councillor for Copt Hill Ward for comment, who emphasised the need for new housing in Sunderland.

He said: "This site is part of the city’s core development plan as it’s well recognised that in Sunderland and around the country there is a need for more and better housing, including those for affordable rents or to buy.

"We want to see everywhere in Sunderland become more dynamic and vibrant as part of our City Plan and this includes seeing new housing and development where it is appropriate."

He added: "As a ward councillor I have received representation on this matter and myself and my colleagues will be listening to our residents' views. We would also encourage all residents to take part and respond to the consultation questionnaire they may have received."