Plans to build 14 affordable homes in a County Durham village have been approved by the council despite objections being raised by neighbours.

The scheme, set for Coundon Gate, Bishop Auckland, includes 10 wheelchair-accessible bungalows and four houses, all for affordable rent.

Concerns were voiced by neighbouring residents including Susan Reynolds, who said access to the development was "seriously inadequate and would cause significant danger to children who play in the cul-de-sac as well as anyone who needs vehicular access via the junction on Durham Road."

She highlighted the potential for increased congestion on the busy A688, particularly around a major roundabout and bus stops, making it difficult for residents to merge.

Despite these concerns, the council approved the development, which will also see the addition of 22 car parking spaces and 16 cycle spaces to the previously unoccupied site.

The area will also benefit from sustainable drainage systems, aimed at managing surface water and reducing flood risks.

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Tree protection measures and surveys are set to be conducted to ensure the preservation of existing biodiversity.

The homes, set to be built with a net gain of 14 new units, have been designed with accessibility and affordability in mind.

The development will also include modifications to access routes from the public highway.

The approval from the council comes with conditions, including the adherence to specified plans such as tree protection, drainage strategies, and ecological assessments.

Pre-construction requirements stipulate that tree and ecological protections must be in place before work begins, and archaeological investigations must be carried out for heritage protection.

The development will also include the installation of electric vehicle charging points, bat and bird boxes, and further measures to ensure biodiversity net gains.

These homes, funded by the Homes England AHP grant, will address affordable housing needs for individuals with disabilities requiring supported living arrangements and will work in collaboration with Durham County Council to allocate residents.

The breakdown of the homes includes six two-bedroom bungalows, two three-bedroom bungalows, two two-bedroom wheelchair bungalows, two three-bedroom houses, and two four-bedroom houses.