A LEISURE park is being planned on a brownfield site near Darlington.

It will include 115 static caravans, a gymnasium, swimming pool, football pitch, and three tennis courts.

The surrounding area would be landscaped, and trees planted.

The development is planned at the old brickworks at Skipbridge, off Neasham Road, between Hurworth and the 96.6 TFM Darlington Arena.

The brickworks closed in 1980. Some of the buildings have been converted to cottages, but others have been only partially demolished.

Draft plans were submitted this week to Darlington Borough Council and local residents, who will be consulted.

Councillor Peter Foster, who lives in Skipbridge and represents Hurworth, said the site was in desperate need of development.

"It's absolutely disgusting, and it has been like that for 20 years," he said.

"I've been trying to get something done about it for a long time.

"All the area is an absolute mess.

"I can't think of anything better for the site. It would be a magnificent way to tidy it up."

The site's developers are Terry Ward, his brother John, and Richard Hadland, who also owns the Penthouse Fitness Suite in Skinnergate, Darlington.

Mr Ward's group is also behind the housing development and equestrian centre at Brickyard Farm, next to the planned leisure park.

Terry Ward said: "The area is old and derelict. It has needed a development like this for a number of years.

"It's a mess - something should have been done years ago."

A formal planning application will be made to Darlington Council in the new year. If permission is granted, Mr Ward hopes to have the leisure park in use within 15 months, with all landscaping completed in two years.

But not everyone is happy with the proposals. Hurworth councillor Martin Swainston said some residents had concerns.

"It's early days, but I have spoken to a couple of residents who have concerns," he said.

"They are worried about the effect on the environment, damage to property value, and a potential increase in traffic."