CONTROVERSIAL plans for a three-storey block of flats on the outskirts of Darlington town centre look likely to get approval, despite protests from neighbours.

Darlington Homes wants to build the self-contained flats, to include 28 car parking spaces, in the grounds of the former Darlington Building Society offices in Stanhope Road.

But the development has been opposed by people living in nearby properties who have sent 30 protest letters to Darlington Borough Council.

Residents have complained that the flats would be too high, and out of character with existing buildings.

Other complaints have included a loss of trees as a result of the development, a concern about insufficient car parking, and that there are too many flats in the area.

Council officers are recommending that the project should go-ahead and that permission should be granted.

A report to councillors says that the flats are acceptable and fit in with the surrounding conservation area.

Three trees - two silver birches and a purple cherry - will have to be removed as a result of the scheme, but a planning condition will secure replacements.

The report adds that car parking measures are satisfactory.

The scheme will be discussed by councillors at a planning applications committee on Thursday.