OPPOSITION to a planned caravan park is on the rise - despite assurances from its developer that it will not become a home for gipsies.

By yesterday, 56 people had objected to the proposed park, at Skipbridge, near Hurworth, while six had written in support.

But developer Terry Ward has hit back. In a letter to The Northern Echo, Darlington Borough Council and Neasham Parish Council, Mr Ward said residents would be "proud" of the park if it was built.

The site, in its present state is a mix of hard standing and scrubland, would have 115 static caravans, tennis courts, a gym and play areas.

The Northern Echo reported last week that Hurworth Parish Council members unanimously objected to the proposals, fearing extra traffic, noise, and litter.

At its meeting, a resident claimed Mr Ward said he would sell his land to gipsies if the park was not approved - a claim Mr Ward has strongly denied.

Darlington council's planning committee is still to set a date for its decision, but residents have made their feelings clear.

One wrote to the council: "When we moved to Neasham 36 years ago, it was a quiet, rural community. Now on some days in summer, it is like a thriving resort, with cars parked everywhere. Please do not add to this problem."

Another wrote: "As a resident of Neasham for more than 25 years, I have always enjoyed the peacefulness of our area... there can be little doubt that perhaps 450 people at the caravan site would upset this tranquillity."

However, one supporting letter states: "At the moment it is no more than a talked-about eyesore. I would welcome it and so should a lot more residents."

Mr Ward, who lives near the proposed site, refuted claims it would blight the area.

He wrote: "The intention of the development is to enhance the environment and create a leisure park that would be a credit to the authority and create a landscape the local residents will be proud of.

"People are under the impression this is only a caravan park. In reality it is intended to be a leisure park, with facilities to serve the luxury static chalets.

"This is not a touring site with caravans coming and going on a regular basis, but will serve as a retreat for families and business people wishing to get away."

He continued: "The suggestion the site could or would be used by the travelling community is both unfair and untrue, and certain people are making this excuse to rubbish the scheme."