COUNCILLORS have asked for more information before determining whether to grant planning permission for a housing development on land owned by a social club.

Castleside Workingmen’s Club near, Consett, in County Durham, wants to sell grassland to the rear of the premises to a developer who would build five retirement bungalows.

The bungalows would be accessed via the club car park through electronic security gates and planners have recommended it for approval.

The club has been trading at a loss recently but a statement to councillors said the sale of land would help it survive.

The statement said: "The committee have many ideas regarding the way forward.

"Money from the potential sale would fund necessary work to the club and concert room in particular, pay off loans and allow the negotiation of better prices from suppliers, competitive prices, marketing, and leave investment money to ensure survival."

As part of a drive to reverse fortunes of the club, which has more than 300 members, it has set up a website and a Facebook page and is staging regular tribute band acts.

Councillor Beattie Bainbridg said: "They say the club is not busy but if it was full on a Saturday night how would emergency vehicle get through?

"I am concerned about that."

The plan has proved unpopular with villagers who have submitted 14 letters of objection to Durham County Council.

Dr Karl Houseley addressed the north area planning committee on behalf of residents on Thursday.

He said: "The club has placed their financial position at the heart of this issue. "They paint the picture of a failing business model but they are not at the heart of the village and not at the heart of the community.

"They are not the unique business they would have you believe."

Councillors asked for planning officers to get more information on drainage at the site, how existing residents’ light would be affected and more accurate drawings to help them make a decision.

Councillor Joe Armstrong said: "We have not enough information and we need it to be more accurate."

Coun Armstrong moved for the decision to be deferred and was supported unanimously by other members of the committee.