ENVIRONMENT campaigners yesterday spoke of their concerns about the development of a key part of Darlington.

Plans have been submitted to Darlington Borough Council for an increase in the number of parking spaces at Bannatyne Health and Fitness Club, in Haughton Road.

The company wants to increase on-site parking provision from 141 to 156 spaces.

Plans for a small extension to the club have recently been approved and proposals have been sent to the council for the remainder of the site to be used for leisure facilities.

But the Campaign to Protect Rural England is opposing the move.

Gillian Wilson, of the County Durham branch, said: "We need more information about this leisure use.

"We were concerned about the loss of employment land, but that's gone now. But the amount of car parking provision is definitely over the top for the recommendations."

Planning committee members will decide on the application at a meeting today