A retail park in Gateshead could take trade away from Consett and Stanley town centres, fear planning officers.
J J Gallagher is seeking outline planning approval from Gateshead Borough Council to build at Hannington Works, Derwenthaugh, near the MetroCentre.
The development would provide more than 22,000sq ft of floor space for non-food warehouses.
Planning officials in Derwentside fear that any loss of trade in Consett and Stanley would threaten the ability of the towns to attract new shops.
Next Thursday, Derwentside District Council's development committee will be recommended to send its objections to the scheme to Gateshead Borough Council, which will decide whether to give planning permission.
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