A TRAFFIC calming measure to stop motorists using a village route as a rat run has been agreed alongside plans to build ten homes.

Outline planning permission was granted by Stockton Borough Council for the development off Grove Bank, in Kirklevington, near Yarm, despite concerns from villagers.

Jennie Beaumont said the “four to five bedroom” homes were “out of character” with neighbouring streets and nearby bungalows – urging the developers to come back with a better scheme.

And she also shared road safety worries with motorists using Forest Lane, which leads onto Grove Bank, as a “rat run” from the A67 through the “very low bridge”.

Kirklevington’s Andy Alton pressed his case along similar lines – focussing on pedestrian safety.

He added: “There is no alternative footpath connection between the proposed site and the village and therefore primary school children with parents who wish to walk to school have no option but to use Forest Lane.”

He asked the councillors to attach a condition to ensure Forest Lane is narrowed to a single lane so eastbound traffic must give way to oncoming traffic – which could then offer a safer crossing point for pedestrians.

Planning agent Fahim Farooqui, on behalf of C2 Property Limited, said the design “followed the flow” of bungalows and said the plan had a “far better and more pleasant layout” than 90 houses which had been approved on appeal nearby.

He added: “In terms of visual impact I totally disagree with Ms Beaumont – I think this is far better in overall appearance."

Members voted 11 to three in favour of the application.