A VILLAGE is to have a new barn despite residents' claims that it will ruin the rural view.

Durham County Council’s planning committee approved Sean Pattinson’s plan for a barn opposite New Row in Oakenshaw at their meeting in Crook this afternoon (May 8).

Objector Kate McNulty, who lives opposite the proposed barn, said it would be visible to 60 houses, a third of the village, and more than 40 people have expressed their objection.

She said the land has been divided into five plots two of which already have barns.

Ms McNulty said: “These already detract from the appearance of the village, another will encroach further on the pleasant rural view enjoyed by residents for many years.

“Oakenshaw is an attractive village to live in.”

Olwyn Gunn, county councillor for Willington and Hunwick, also opposed the barn saying it would be “unacceptable” and would have a “negative effect on the character and appearance of the area.”

The objectors said the cumulative effect of all three barns should be considered and they were concerned that a precedent for more similar structures to be built had been set.

Residents also raised concerns about the possibility of the barn being used as a business, but planning officer Adrian Caines said there would be strict conditions limiting all activity on the site.

He said it would be approved for agricultural use only and will be used to store machinery and feed with six sheep pens.

Mr Caines also said the barn will be sunk into the ground with trees being planted to screen it from view.

Seven councillors voted in favour of the barn, one against and two abstained.

Keith Davidson, councillor for Chester-le-Street South, said he had listened to the objections, but had not heard a planning reason for refusing the application.