COUNCILLORS are due to decide whether two new homes should be built in a sensitive city centre area next week (Tuesday, December 10).

Ian Eggleston has applied for planning permission for two terraced houses to fill a gap between existing homes on Sidegate, in Durham.

Mr Eggleston and his wife have owned 14 Sidegate for nearly ten years and rent the property out.

Durham County Council planning officers have recommended the scheme be approved when it goes before the central and east planning committee on Tuesday.

However, Sidegate Residents’ Association is opposed to the scheme, claiming the homes would be let to students – adding to parking problems on the street.

The Egglestons say they would not necessarily be occupied by students and they have experienced no problems with their tenants.

Councillors will meet to debate the application at County Hall, Durham, at 1pm on Tuesday.