A SCHEME to transform a small village play area into a multi-purpose games site has been given the go-ahead, despite concerns from nearby residents.

The plans to redevelop land at the rear of High Terrace, in Roddymoor, will see a floodlit area suitable for several sports, alongside the existing play area in the village.

About £65,000 has been raised in the form of grants by Groundwork North-East, which was approached by the Roddymoor Village Hall Association about the possibility of such a venue.

Groundwork is now seeking quotations to find the best price, and work is expected to begin shortly.

Oliver Graham, of Groundwork, said he was delighted that planning permission had been granted, and that he was looking forward to the work beginning.

He said: "It's positive news, so hopefully now we'll work to get the project up to tender and get work going as soon as possible.

"We'll agree a contract and then it'll be all systems go. It will hopefully be finished by the spring, or at least by May."

Under the plans, the existing play area will be updated, while a new games area will also be built, with a tarmac footpath to link the site to the highway.

Mr Graham explained: "The play area is a bit dead; that will be refurbished with a fresh coat of paint, and safety will be addressed.

"Then there will be the games area, which will allow local residents to play five-a-side, basketball, hockey, anything they want really."

However, at a meeting of Wear Valley District Council's development control committee, residents expressed fears that the new facilities would create parking congestion in the small village.

One resident said: "We have no objection to this play area going ahead but we cannot believe that such a large project has not allowed for parking."

But Mr Graham insisted that the site was being developed with villagers in mind, rather than people and teams from other areas.

He said: "The concerns are about if a local football league decided that they want to have their games there, but I don't think that will happen.

"It's planned for the local residents - but if it is a problem, it's something we'll look at.

"Hopefully there will be room for everyone."