A ROW has erupted over access as a council plans to sell off one its historic buildings.

Last year, development guidelines were approved for the sale of Nunthorpe Hall Farm and Blacksmith’s Yard, but residents and local councillors claim the guidance is being ignored.

Middlesbrough Council’s executive sub-committee for property agreed the sites should be marketed with 'Development Guidance' from the North of England Civic Trust (NECT) which outlines that the main farm building and the yard should remain as they are externally, but can be turned into homes.

However, it is concerns over access that is creating anxiety for residents, some of whom have lived in the area for generations.

The council has defended its stance and maintains that negotiations are ongoing with residents to resolve any concerns.

Cliff Kitching, who has lived in the village for most of his 83 years, is calling on the council to speak to residents before anything is agreed with potential developers.

The retired businessman, who ran a joinery business in the village for decades, said: "All we want is reassurance that we will be able to access the rear of our properties like we have done for years. If they closed off the access at the end of my property, are they expecting an 83-year-old man to drag his bins along to the other end of the block?

"Nobody from the council has come out and spoken to me - that's all I'm asking for - for them to talk to me about any changes to the access."

Ward councillors Jon Rathmell and Lesley McGloin are supporting residents in their quest to get the council to reassure people that historic access will not be affected by any development of the site.

Cllr Rathmell said: "There are people who have lived in the area for generations and they are concerned that they will lose access to their homes. The council said they would leave the situation to the developer to resolve but they appear to ignoring their own decisions."

The development proposals - which will have a maximum of 20 homes - were first put forward in April 2012. In July 2013 the sale of the properties was approved. They are currently let by the council for farming and commercial use.

Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council’s executive member for regeneration, said: “We are currently engaged in discussions with a number of parties over access issues relating to this site.

“As these are potentially the subject of legal proceedings it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.

"However Cllr Rathmell does not appear to be in possession of all the facts or understand the issues involved, and I would suggest he speaks to our officers who can bring him up to speed.”