MORE than 100 residents packed a community centre to voice their worries over plans to build in the grounds of a landmark Victorian hall.

An application has been submitted to demolish outbuildings at Brockley Hall, in Saltburn, east Cleveland, and replace them with a four-storey apartment block.

The scheme, which would create 22 sheltered accommodation apartments, has received the support of planning officers at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

But at a public meeting in Saltburn Community Centre yesterday, people spoke of their anger and worries that the scheme could harm the character of the town.

David Knowles, of Saltburn Society’s steering group, said: “I believe it will spoil the unique character and environment quality that we currently enjoy.

“It is an attractive building and it will be sought after. It would be better to get something that fits with the community’s objectives.”

Campaigner David Matson said: “The council’s own policies prohibit building on private open spaces important to the townscape of conservation areas.

“So, I am shocked that council officers have recommended approval.”

Another campaigner Tanya Harvey said: “The proposed development would wreck an important, tranquil and leafy corner of Saltburn.

“What we do now will affect our legacy for future generations.

As a mother of young children, I must resist this development on behalf my children and all of the other children who will be the future residents of this town.”

Brockley Hall is a holiday retreat for Christians and has been operating on the site for more than 50 years.

The development is a way of raising funds for the hall, which is open for most of the year and is run as a charitable trust by Christian Endeavour Holiday Centres, and can cater for up to 60 guests in a range of rooms.

Members of the borough council’s planning committee will visit the site before making a decision on the proposals.

More than 300 letters of objection and a 1,000-signature petition have been presented to the council.

At the meeting, people agreed to look at ways to show councillors the strength of feeling against the plans. They intend to visit the hall on the day of the council site meeting and also meet the hall’s trustees.

An application to build a threestorey extension and sun lounge to replace a bedroom block and adjoining chalet has also been submitted.