PLANS for a large housing estate which would more than double the size of a Teesdale village have attracted a mixed response.

The Ministry of Justice has announced initial plans for an 84-house development on land east of Startforth Park Estate, near Deerbolt Young Offenders’ Institution, in Startforth, near Barnard Castle. Startforth currently has about 65 houses.

But while some residents say the estate would throw a lifeline to Startforth Morritt Primary School, which has seen a steady decline in pupil numbers, others say the scheme is too large.

It is thought the scheme would include energy efficient houses varying in size from one-bedroom affordable properties to four bedroom family homes.

A MOJ spokesman said: “The MOJ is holding pre-application discussions with planning officers, local councillors and other interested parties on the detail of a proposed housing development on a site to the south of HMP Deerbolt.

“This includes a public exhibition, to be held on October 4, to explain the proposals for the housing development and give local people the opportunity to comment.”

Should a planning application be submitted, it is likely to be looked upon favourably by Durham County Council, which included the land near Deerbolt in a list of potential sites for new housing developments as part of its dtrategic housing plan.

Keith Watson, vice-chairman of Startforth Parish Council, said: “I have spoken to a lot of residents about this and some are upset because of the size of it – 84 is too many houses.”

“But something could work up there – it would be good for the school and good for Barnard Castle.

“In theory, it could be a positive thing, but we will have to wait and see what they are proposing.”

Startforth resident Celia Clarke said: “If something like that were to be built they would have to provide more services like news agents or a post office, because it would change the village quite a lot.”

The MOJ will hold a public exhibition detailing plans at Addisons auction room, Barnard Castle, on Monday, October 4, from 2-4pm. For more details call 01332-206222.