MEMBERS of the public shouted in anger as they left a meeting of Durham County Council’s Planning Committee yesterday (Thursday, September 18).
The residents of Barnard Castle were angered by the committee’s decision to grant planning permission for 62 new homes in the town, despite an objection from the town council.
David Wilson Homes will build the houses over two green fields, north of Barnard Castle School and The Bowes Museum.
Dozens of residents attended the meeting, raising concerns over road safety issues and the lack of bungalows.
Councillor James Rowlandson said: “The entry to the road is very tight, it’s going to be difficult for any traffic to get in and out. It is dangerous and could be an accident waiting to happen.”
Town Council Mayor, Councillor John Blissett added: “The development could bring 124 extra cars using the same road which is going to cause a jam.”
Neil Milburn, director at David Wilson Homes, said: “I have sympathy, but I do not have the agreement, neither do the council officers or the councillors.
“There is no evidence to support the predicted traffic issues and there is no reason to reject the application on this aspect.”
The highways officer said that many surveys had been carried out and that Green Lane is quiet for much of the day.
The councillors voted in favour of the motion 10-1.
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