DEVELOPERS of a controversial cattle mart development have offered to help reinstate the fireworks display at Heighington.

As reported last week, efforts are under way to bring back the bonfire and other events such as the village fete.

Shortly before the start of a meeting in the village on Tuesday to discuss these matters, Darlington Farmers’ Auction Mart approached Coun Gerald Lee offering to sponsor a fireworks night.

He then reported the offer to the meeting.

Plans to relocate Darlington Cattle Market to Humbleton Farm, near Heighington, provoked considerable resistance from the village and surrounding area.

Speaking after the meeting, Coun Lee said: “I think the reality is that the planning application has been approved, whether we like it or not, therefore any contribution to a village group is appreciated. It’s now up to the group to decide.”

Stephen Aitken, managing director of the mart, said it was time to start mending relationships in the area surrounding Humbleton Farm.

“Our business relies on a vibrant rural economy and it’s important that villages like Heighington thrive and are successful,” he said.

“Events like bonfire night and the fireworks display introduce a bit of fun and can only help to strengthen the community.

“Our new agricultural and equine centre, which will be built at Humbleton Farm, is roughly halfway between Darlington and Heighington, so we will soon be neighbours and it’s great to be involved in this way.”

Villagers opposed the plans, fearing the development could open the floodgates for further development on rural land.

But the application was approved, and the development over the next three years will potentially create 300 jobs.

Coun Lee said significant progress was made at Tuesday’s meeting.

He added: “The bonfire will be on. The village fete is about halfway there, it’s now a case of dotting the I’s and crossing the T’s.

“I’m happy that it is moving in the right direction.”