A DECISION affecting the future of Billingham's annual carnival and flower show was delayed by councillors yesterday.

Organisers claim the popular event is under threat by a housing association's plans to build ten old people's bungalows on the site.

The site, known as the Bulgarth, is also vital for local businesses, who use it for parking, and part of it is also used as a children's play area.

Stockton Borough Council's planning committee discussed the scheme yesterday and voted to have a site visit before making any firm decision.

Carnival organisers say any development will spell the end of the carnival and show, which attracts thousands of people each September.

And they say they are already in the thick of plans for the event, and need a decision soon.

Roger Black, carnival organiser, said: "Everything to do with the carnival has had to be put on hold because of this decision.

"People keep ringing up and asking if the carnival is still on this year, and we have to say that we honestly don't know.

"The carnival is a big event and there are a lot of people prepared to fight for its future.

"As far as we are concerned, we need a decision soon."

Protestors say there is no other land suitable for the show tent or the rides for the carnival, which has been running for ten years.

Tees Valley Housing Association is hoping to develop the council-owned site, just off Station Road, Billingham, saying it is earmarked for housing in the council's local plan.

But the proposals have sparked major opposition, with 25 letters of objection. A public meeting was held earlier in the month to inform local residents, and more than 100 people turned up to vote against the housing plan.

Geraldine Wilcox, of Tees Valley Housing, said she had not been aware of the carnival when permission was sought, and would abide by the council's final decision.

She said: "We have no wish to offend the local community."