Plans for two developments on the site of a former Second World War air raid shelter and memorial to Canadian airmen killed in battle, have been thrown out.

More than 40 people objected to a proposal to build 28 detached houses on the site, to the south of Ingleby Barwick, and a proposal for a recreational area and youth centre opposite a site planned to hold a secondary school.

Although Stockton Borough Council officers recommenced that the plans, which included covering the youth centre's running costs for one year, be accepted, councillors voted against the developments.

Before submitting the planning application, the developers asked local people if they would be willing to see 28 new houses built as a means to fund new sporting facilities.

Almost 98 per cent of those questioned said they wanted new sporting facilities and 69 per cent were prepared to accept the housing developments to secure funding.

But 33 letters of objection were sent to the council about the housing development, complaining about the siting of houses on a green site.

There were also complaints from nearby home owners who claimed they had paid more for their houses to be opposite a green belt site.

One complainant said: "Facilities for the youth are needed but not at the risk of more houses.

"Adequate grants and Lottery funding are available to fund leisure facilities."

The loss of the air raid shelter was also cited as a reason to refuse the application.

However, a 427-signature petition by Ingelby Barwick Football Club and Youth Club was also submitted to the council supporting the application.

Ingleby Barwick Parish Council was also in favour but nearby Hilton Parish Council and Maltby Parish Council complained about the plans.

A spokesman said: "Although the development would not be in the parish of Maltby, it is considered that the effects would be seen within the parish. The general feeling is that 'enough is enough. The villages within Ingleby Barwick are merging together and Stockton Borough Council and the developer are substituting short term gain in place of any vision of an ideal development."

Concerns were also expressed by English Nature about the effects of the development on the local newt population.