THE regeneration of Firthmoor estate in Darlington moved a step closer this week when developers Haslam Homes and Barratt Homes received planning permission to build 413 replacement houses.

The development, with associated garages and parking spaces, will combine a mix of two-bedroomed terraced and four-bedroom detached homes.

Also included is a £240,000 commuted sum from the developers to be spent on improving open spaces and play areas at Alderman Crooks Park and Holgate Moor Green.

Money is expected to be left over from this to support other schemes as part of the regeneration of the area.

Access to the site will lead from Ingleby Moor Crescent, Edgemoor Road and Carlton Moor Crescent and will include footpaths to open space and Ingleby Moor Crescent.

At yesterday's meeting of the council's planning committee, members agreed unanimously to approve the scheme.