PLANS to build up to 49 homes on open land on the edge of a housing estate could be given the go-ahead next week (Tuesday, March 11).

A Durham County Council planning committee refused permission for 54 houses on land between Willowtree Avenue and Belmont Road, in Gilesgate Moor, Durham City, last October – against the recommendation of their officials.

Now the same developer has returned seeking consent for a slightly smaller development on the 3.7-acre site, on the edge of High Grange Estate.

Again, planning officers are recommending approval.

In a report to Tuesday’s planning committee, they write: “The proposed development would constitute an appropriate and sustainable development at the location with no significantly harmful effects noted by officers which would warrant refusal of the application.”

Belmont Parish Council has objected, saying residents want no more houses built.

The county council’s central and east area planning committee will debate the application at County Hall on Tuesday, in a meeting starting at 1pm.