RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say on revised plans for thousands of new homes in Darlington.

Last summer, Darlington Borough Council received hundreds of responses to a consultation on its Making and Growing Places development plan, which highlighted areas for potential development in the borough up to 2026.

Following the consultation, planners have produced a revised draft policy, which includes plans for around 6,200 homes, including two options for a 350-home development in the Harrowgate Hill area.

Around 400 fewer homes are now planned for the Central Park area. The number of proposed homes for land to the east of Red Hall, Haughton and Great Burdon has been increased.

The plans were approved by members of the council’s cabinet on April 29, and residents will now be able to have their say on the plans.

Councillor Chris McEwan, the council's cabinet member for economy and regeneration, welcomed the consultation.

He said: “New housing is essential to support our ambitions for economic growth and a better quality of life for all.”

Consultation will run from Friday, May 23 to Friday, July 4 and five public events will be also held for nearby residents.

Events will take place at St Mary’s Cockerton Community Centre, June 18, 4.30pm to 6.30pm; St Andrew’s Church Hall, Haughton, June 19, 5pm to 7pm; Whessoe Parish Hall, June 25, 5pm to 7pm; Darlington market, June 28, 10am to 2pm, and Gurney Pease Primary School, June 30, 5pm to 7pm.

Written responses can be sent to planning.policy@darlington.gov.uk or Freepost DL64, Planning Policy, Darlington Borough Council, Darlington, DL1 5BS.

Comment forms can also be filled in at the town hall, the library or at darlington.gov.uk/mgp

Alternatively call 01325-388644.