Plans to open supported living accommodation for young adults in County Durham have been withdrawn after backlash from local residents including concerns about safeguarding of a nearby school.

The proposal, submitted for 16 Croft Street, Crook, aimed to transform a social club and manager’s flat into a residential institution for up to 13 young people aged 16 to 21.

It would have offered 24-hour support with staff on-site, but the plan was scrapped on Tuesday after objections were raised by local residents and institutions, citing concerns over potential increases in anti-social behaviour and local safety.

Antonella Lupton, the headteacher of Crook Primary School, was concerned about the safety of the 340 children who pass by the proposed site, particularly given past issues with another nearby facility which included residents "urinating on the grass outside, drinking in broad daylight and behaving in an anti-social manner."

The school claimed they had not been informed about the proposal, despite being a direct neighbour.

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One objector, Jessica Goodall from Tow Law, expressed worries about current disturbances caused by groups of young people around local supermarkets, fearing the new facility would exacerbate these issues.

David Collingwood, from Crook, had similar concerns, particularly about the vulnerability of elderly residents and families with young children in the vicinity.

He also noted issues with a nearby facility, including alcohol and drug misuse, which he believes would put additional strain on local services.

Planning documents, submitted by YMCA Wearside, were intended to reassure the community, stating that the facility would provide supported accommodation for young people with low support needs.

Residents were to be carefully vetted, and individuals with histories of violence, substance abuse, or serious criminal offences would not be considered according to the application.

A planning statement also emphasised the facility’s alignment with the County Durham Plan’s policies on sustainable development, appropriate location, and community integration.

Despite these assurances, the local community remained unconvinced, leading to the withdrawal of the application after 29 public comments were made about the plans.