Residents are contesting plans for thousands of free range hens in their village.

Landowner Bill Spry has submitted proposals to house 12,000 birds at Derwent Oak Farm, in Hamsterley Mill, near Gateshead. The development would stand less than 350 metres away from the nearest homes.

Residents of the village, where house prices average £400,000, fear smells will affect their quality of life and house prices.

Protestor Jim Little said: "There is already evidence of house sales falling through because of these proposals."

Opponents have formed a committee and spent more than £3,000 commissioning an independent study into the development. They have also sent more than 180 letters of objection to Derwentside District Council, plus a 200-name petition.

Mr Spry said: "We would never do anything that would be detrimental to the Derwent Valley. The farm is not making any money and free range eggs is one of the most profitable areas in agriculture at the moment."

Planners at Derwentside District Council are recommending the scheme for approval when the planning committee considers the application today.