A NEW sports field for youngsters on an estate has been delayed because of the housing slump.

Miller Homes has been given permission to provide a playing field on the Skerne Park estate after it has sold 75 homes on a new development at Snipe House Farm.

The firm was originally supposed to provide the field after the 50th home on the site was occupied but had asked for the deferment because of the economic credit crunch.

Patrick Arkle, on behalf of Miller Homes, told Darlington Borough Council's planning meeting on Wednesday that only 18 homes had been occupied on Snipe Lane development.

Its expectations were to have sold 40 by now on a site which will eventually be for 149 homes.

Mr Arkle added the firm expected to have sold 50 homes by this time next year.

Residents and local councillors had objected to the delay because the sports field was an important facility.

Councillor Cyndi Hughes told the meeting that Miller Homes had announced a record result last year and announced an increased turnover.

Councillors on the committee agreed with their officers' recommendation to delay the laying of the new field.