A PETITION signed by 100 residents objecting to the building of bungalows on their estate has been submitted to planners.

Social landlord Derwentside Homes has applied for planning permission to build 10 two-bedroom bungalows on land near Dryden Close, in East Stanley.

The developer is asking permission to create a cul-de-sac of bungalows, each with their own rear garden, along with car parking spaces.

Half the homes would be for rent and half available under a Government help-to-buy scheme.

However, residents have objected to the proposal, with 100 locals signing a petition opposing the scheme and a further five residents writing individual letters to voice their concerns.

The proposed development is on a 0.5-hectare site of open space within a 1970s housing estate and residents say they are concerned about the loss of the land which is used by children and dog-walkers, particularly after the building of the North Durham Academy on nearby playing fields.

Objectors have also raised concerns over loss of their privacy, drainage and also potential traffic problems, particularly in winter.

Planning officials are recommending that the development be granted conditional approval. Members of Durham County Council’s Area Planning Committee (North) are expected to vote on the proposal when they meet at County Hall, in Durham on Thursday.

Councillors are also due to decide at the same meeting on a second application by Derwentside Homes.

The developer is seeking permission to build 25 bungalows on land at Humber Hill, also in East Stanley.

Only two residents have raised concerns about the larger development and council officers are recommending that the development also be granted conditional approval.