THE man behind plans for a sport and leisure centre on a Teesside estate has hit back at criticism from a residents' group set up to fight the scheme.

Scott Leisure has applied for planning permission to build a Mister Twister's centre on land on the corner of Ingleby Way and Thornaby Road, in Ingleby Barwick, near Stockton.

Residents opposed to the development have formed the Ingleby Barwick Villagers' Association.

They say the area needs facilities for its young people, but the site is inappropriate.

They object to the loss of green land and are worried about increased traffic.

The group has also accused the developer of putting profit before the wishes of local people.

David Scott, who owns Scott Leisure, said: "In spite of those who claim the contrary, this development is not motivated by profit. It is motivated by local need and the knowledge that Ingleby Barwick simply has not got any social, recreational and sporting facilities.

"In the short time the plans have been made available, several sports groups, including gymnastics, martial arts, and a dance school, have expressed a desire to use the facilities.

"We believe this development offers the community a wonderful opportunity to provide the very best in sport and leisure facilities for families."

Mr Scott claimed the open nature of the land would not be compromised by the building, which he said amounts to six per cent of the eight-acre site.

He said: "We regret the level of misinformation that has been generated by the planning application.

"The development does not, as some believe, encroach on the Bassleton Beck Valley and, in fact, our proposal seeks to preserve, enhance and protect the valley, which has been offered to Stockton Borough Council's parks and countryside team to be integrated into the proposed Ingleby Barwick Country Trail.

"Landscaping will complement the surroundings and the distance from the existing houses is such that all privacy currently enjoyed by the occupiers will be maintained.

"Existing trees and bushes protected by Tree Preservation Orders will be retained and incorporated into the scheme, in addition to which additional planting and a tree management programme will be implemented."

Stockton councillors David Harrington and Lee Narroway, both members of the Ingleby Barwick Independent Association (Ibis), said: "Ibis continues its pledge to represent residents' views in Ingleby Barwick, and it seems very clear here that they are not willing to sacrifice their 'green wedge land' for a private facility such as this."

The Ingleby Barwick Villagers' Association will hold a meeting at Bannatyne's Health Club, Myton Way, Ingleby Barwick tomorrow, at 8pm.