Plans to convert a Darlington farm's barn into a residential property have been lodged with Durham County Council.

The proposal, submitted by Melanie and Jake Phipps, involves converting a barn at Langton Farm, Headlam, into a home and demolishing some other structures.

The application states there will be no major changes to vehicle access or parking, and the site is not prone to flooding.

However, the property is home to some wildlife, and further surveys have been referenced.

An ecology report has confirmed the presence of two brown long-eared bat roosts in the buildings set for conversion.

The report recommends mitigation measures to protect the bats, including obtaining a licence from Natural England and providing replacement roosting areas.

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Swallow nests have also been found in the buildings, and a barn owl occasionally roosts in one of the barns.

The report suggests avoiding demolition during bird nesting season, from March to August, and installing alternative nesting boxes for barn owls and swallows.

The report concludes that although there will be some impact on wildlife, careful mitigation will ensure minimal long-term harm.

A coal mining risk report has also been submitted, assessing the potential risks associated with coal mining activity at Langton Farm.

The report concludes that there is no significant risk from coal mining-related ground instability that would affect the property or its value.

A mine entry (adit) was identified about 9 metres from the site boundary.

While its exact depth is unknown, it is not expected to pose a significant risk to the property.

The report advises monitoring the mine entry area for signs of ground movement or subsidence but does not expect any immediate hazards.

The application is currently pending consideration by Durham County Council.

Residents and other interested parties can view the full application and submit comments via the council's planning portal.