PLANS have been unveiled for a major housing development on a high-profile factory site in north Durham.

The proposals for 350 homes on the site of the former Every Ready factory on the Tanfield Lea North Industrial Estate, near Stanley, drew mixed reactions during a public consultation exercise yesterday.

Residents of nearby Tanfield village oppose the plans on the grounds the development would destroy the character of their village and lead to traffic problems, while others felt that much-needed housing would be a welcome boost for the area.

Neil Morton of Nathaniel Lichfield and partners, who are acting on behalf of the owners Ridgeway Enterprises said: "The site is currently mostly vacant and derelict.

"It is a large eyesore and is heavily contaminated from its former industrial uses.

"Our client’s proposals would involve major environmental improvements including decontamination and a clean up to make the site safe.

"The plan would be transform the site with a modern, well-designed and landscaped housing development of around 350 homes, including a number of affordable homes for local people."

He added residents were also being consulted on the option of a small shop to serve residents and the nearby business park.

Mr Morton said: "Durham County Council has identified the need to build a further 500 homes on new on greenfield urban extension sites near Tanfield Lea and Stanley.

"What we are saying is that this is a brownfield site and we feel this is a far better alternative."

He added the occupiers of a couple of remaining premises would be relocated.

Cliff Goodwin of Tanfield Village said: "This development, if it is allowed, will destroy the character of our village.

"We are one of only of four villages Durham County Council recognises in planning policies as a village."

He added there were also concerns about increased traffic and the toxins which had to be cleared from site.

Jennifer Pearce of Tanfield Lea said: "Anything that will improve the site is to be welcomed. And they will be providing housing on a brownfield site rather than using a greenfield site."

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