COUNCILLORS have voiced their worries about plans to build a pub next to a Darlington school.

Pathfinder Pubs wants to build a pub near Alderman Leach Primary School, on the West Park estate.

A provisional application for a premises licence is due to be considered at Darlington Magistrates' Court on June 7.

The building would be 5,500 sq ft, with access from John Fowler Way.

But, parish councillors in Archdeacon Newton are worried that only four disabled and 12 other parking spaces are included in the plan.

Councillor Derek Beadle said: "Any establishment like that near a school begs a lot of questions - parking, amenities, everything."

Coun Peter Way said: "Sixteen car parking spaces is totally inadequate - it is pie in the sky to assume most of their trade will come from the estate by foot."

If magistrates approve the provisional licence application, Darlington Borough Council will not be able to refuse a full licence once the pub is built.