AN old burial site could be dug up if a plan for new homes wins approval.

Dozens of residents have organised a petition objecting to the application to build 14 homes on derelict land at Cutlers Hall Road and Benfieldside Road, Blackhill, near Consett.

Police traffic experts are also objecting to the scheme.

But planners are recommending that approval on condition that car parking and road access issues are tackled before building begins.

The vacant and overgrown site was once occupied by a Baptist church and it is believed that there may be several graves in the area.

Residents, who have warned that the plan will create traffic dangers, say the new houses will also be out of keeping with other nearby properties dating back to the 1700s.

Derwentside district councillors will consider the application on Thursday, at Consett Civic Centre.