A developer has defended plans to convert a County Durham tower block into flats - and denied claims it will house refugees. 

Vinovium House in Bishop Auckland could be redeveloped into 54 flats under plans submitted by applicant Amsage Limited. 

The eight-storey building, at Saddler Street, previously contained a Job Centre Plus and housed Department for Work and Pensions offices. 

Several objection letters from nearby residents have been submitted in response to the prior notification application. 

Vinovium House, as seen from the A689Vinovium House, as seen from the A689 (Image: Google)

Ian Simpson, who lives nearby, warned that “an anti-social ghetto could develop in Bishop Auckland” if the proposal is approved. 

Meanwhile, Carrie-ann Hewitt said the “sheer size and design of the building will likely make it an eyesore and detract from the character and aesthetics of our town”. 

She added: “I am concerned about the potential demographic of the residents. There is a valid concern among community members that these flats may not adequately address the housing needs of our current residents but could instead attract immigrants and refugees which we have many of them already, leading to further social and economic challenges.”

Their concerns were echoed by other objections submitted by neighbours. 

However, a public statement issued by the applicant responded to the concerns and “rumours being spread over social media” about the future of the building. 

“The strong theme appears to be that the building once built out is going to be let solely for

immigration purposes with many claiming an agreement has already been made with several different companies such as Mears,” the statement read. 

“We can confirm no agreement is in place, and no talks have been held with any companies such as Mears. The intention is, and always has been, to bring the property back into use and provide much-needed accommodation for residents whilst helping to regenerate the town centre for generations to come.”

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Amsage Limited said a mixed-use development was considered for Vinovium House but was not financially feasible. 

No external changes to the building and 47 car parking spaces are proposed. 

The statement added: “We hope this puts you all at ease and helps show you that this development is a positive step forward in the regeneration of the area and provides residents of Bishop Auckland and surrounding areas with much-needed residential accommodation in the heart of the town.”