A CINEMA and an ice rink topped the list when a developer quizzed residents about what they would most like to see in their community.

ESRG, a UK investment company, hopes to build 461 homes on sites off Beacon Lane and Salters Lane in Sedgefield.

Outline plans, which were submitted last month, received a mixed reaction from residents, with many residents claiming the development would spoil the town’s rural character.

The company also proposes building a range of community facilities to support the development and recently sent out a questionnaire to seek residents’ views on what the town needs.

Almost 200 people responded and identified an ice rink and a cinema as welcome additions.

David Evans, director of the ESRG Group, said: “We’re committed to listening to the needs of local residents and are delighted by some of the positive feedback that we’ve received so far.

“Sedgefield has a unique community feel which we want to help strengthen. Not only will our plans deliver a better alternative to building the identified homes that Sedgefield needs, but will also provide much-needed facilities to support residents’ aspirations now and for the next generation.

ESRG has submitted an application to develop 218 homes, including 13 self-build plots, as well as a 53-bed extra care facility for land off Beacon Lane. Designed by Gradon Architecture, in partnership with Haylock Planning and Design, the application also includes outline proposals for a further 243 homes, including 12 bungalows, off Salters Lane, a 50 bed extra care facility, a business incubator, community youth facility and a storage and distribution area.