CAMPAIGNERS battling controversial development plans in Darlington have formalised their fight.

The Friends of Bellburn Lane Field group has been set up in a bid to strengthen opposition to Darlington Borough Council’s Making and Growing Places plan (MGPP).

A popular field close to Bellburn Lane has been earmarked for development as part of the MGPP, which outlines plans to build about 6,000 new houses in Darlington by 2026 - plus amenities and business premises.

Those living around Bellburn Lane have now formed a Friends group, believing it will carry more weight when battling the local authority’s plans.

Campaigner Ian McNaughton said: “Setting up a Friends group means we will be recognised by the local authority as a formal group.

“It gives us the opportunity to make formal representations to our MP and as a group, we will have more say in what goes on.

“They will have to take notice of us rather than ignore us – they’ve changed their plans but they’re still planning on building around 20 houses on the land.”

He added: “It’s not just the building we’re worried about, it’s the road they say will link Hartington Lane and Bellburn Lane.

“Opening up a connected road will create something of a rat run for people who will use it as a shortcut – we think there will be traffic problems.

“This will have a dramatic effect on everyone living in the area and most people want to keep the field as a field.”

He added: “Once this kind of development starts, it’s hard to stop.”

A Darlington Council spokeswoman said the formal decision to include Bellburn Lane and other areas for housing allocation under the MGPP has yet to be made.

She added: “This will be considered by Cabinet in October.

“Although at the moment Bellburn Lane remains one of the preferred options for housing, it must be noted that a reduced part, rather than the whole area of the site, is included in the draft plan.

“Should the site be allocated for housing we will work with the local community to prepare a development brief which will include housing and open space.

“In these circumstances the Friends group could play an important part in shaping the future proposals for the site and we would welcome this.”