A FURNITURE store and petrol station could be demolished to make way for housing if the plans are approved later this month.

Wear Valley District Council's planning officials will consider a proposal to demolish the disused Save filling station and Clifton Suite and Leather Centre, in Tindale Crescent, near Bishop Auckland.

The site of the garage and furniture store, which is to close at the end of the month, could then be developed by Elegant Homes and Properties Limited, and the owner of the plot, Charles Moore, both based in Darlington.

Most of the 70 proposed homes would be two-bedroom flats, aimed at first-time buyers and pensioners. There would also be four executive flats in a separate building.

The buildings would be mainly two-storey built with a combination of brick, rendering and stone.

Land in the centre of the plot would be landscaped and used to provide one car parking space for each flat.

The plans have angered local residents, who have sent several objections to the district council over the proposals.

They are concerned that the site, which is near a set of traffic lights and in an already busy industrial and commercial area, would create extra road hazards.

One neighbour said: "The roads are already busy. There are lots of lorries and cars travelling to the factories and businesses, and these flats would only create more traffic.

"The site is surrounded by roads on all sides and I cannot see how it will be safe for the people living there, especially if there are children or older people."

Other residents have raised concerns about the density of the development, its prominence and the potential effect on house values in the area.

Mr Moore said: "I think the town is crying out for this sort of property. They will be affordable and will add character to the area. Experts have predicted they will increase the value of nearby homes. They have been designed so they will not block light, and will generate less traffic than the showroom and garage when they were running."

Planning officers have recommended permission is granted at Wear Valley District Council's development control committee meeting on Thursday, January 29.