PROTECTED trees in a village conservation area will be pruned so a housing development can be completed.

Residents and parish councillors have complained about the work because they say it will harm the trees.

But Darlington Borough Council's planning committee has given the go-ahead for the pruning on land at Thorntree House, Middleton Lane, Middleton St George.

The application to cut two trees back was made so work on four houses could start.

Proposals, which were approved last year, for the 19th Century home include the demolition of a rear wing.

Middleton St George Parish Council said at the time the application should not have gone ahead because of damage to trees.

A new application was made because some of the trees were stopping work being completed.

Resident Dave Corner told Wednesday's meeting that branches were even growing between scaffolding on the building.

He and a group of residents, from West Acres, have taken their complaint to the local government ombudsman.

Planners said only small branches could be removed and a council arborologist must be present.