A COUNCIL decision to refuse plans for a controversial high-density flat scheme in Darlington has been over-turned by the Government's Planning Inspectorate.

Permission has been granted on appeal for 32 flats to be built in the Cockerton area of town, despite fierce objection from residents.

A Darlington Borough Council spokesman said yesterday that the decision had come as a shock.

He said: "In light of the local objections to the development, we are surprised and disappointed that the inspectors did not take that more fully into account when making their decision."

Maro Development first submitted plans for the redevelopment of the former petrol station in Woodland Road, and an area to the rear of Cockerton Club, last year.

The council received 42 letters of objection from residents and the decision was deferred.

After amendments and reconsultations, about 30 further letters were received, with protestors reiterating their concerns about the size of the development, increased noise and lack of privacy.

At the turn of the year, the council's planning committee refused permission for the scheme, saying the density was too high, trees subject to preservation orders would be at risk and there was insufficient parking.

Maro Developments appealed against the decision and a public inquiry was held last month.

The development proposal comprises three blocks of two-bedroom flats, two and three storeys high. It is flanked on two sides by properties on Newlands Road and Willow Road.

In a report by planning inspector Philip Major, he writes: "There is no doubt in my mind that the proposed development would significantly alter the outlook from many of these dwellings, but the alteration of outlook cannot necessarily equate to the introduction of harm to living conditions."

He also concluded that the design of the development would enhance the area, trees would be protected and there would be sufficient space for car parking in and around the area.

His decision to grant planning permission was backed by a list of 11 conditions, covering obscuring glazing, landscaping of trees and hedges, the provision of a Puffin crossing in Woodland Road and an on-site footpath.