CONCERN about lack of parking and potential traffic problems have blocked another development in Sedgefield.

Members of Sedgefield Borough Council's development control committee yesterday rejected an application to convert a kitchen and bathroom showroom in the village to a bistro. The original plan was to create an Italian style bistro for 86 customers on two floors of the premises in The Square. But the applicant sent a letter, which was read out at the meeting, reducing the number of seats to 60.

Several villagers objected to the plan, citing the lack of car parking provision and the potential for traffic congestion.

Sedgefield Civic Trust, Sedgefield Town Council and Durham County Council also opposed the plan on similar grounds.

The applicant rejected fears that car parking would be a problem, writing: "It is envisaged that the majority of the clientele would walk, get a lift or a taxi, therefore additional traffic would be minimal."

But Sedgefield planning officers shared the concerns of the objectors.

They recommended refusal, saying in a report: "The proposed bistro provides insufficient private parking for visitors or staff on site.

"This would result in the parking of vehicles on the highway to the detriment of highway safety in terms of other road users."

Councillors voted unanimously to reject the application.