COUNCILLORS have backed plans to create a paintball centre next to a historic building used to house judges, despite opposition by the Ministry of Justice.

War games will be allowed 75 days a year in Blackdene Wood, at Plawsworth, near Chester-le-Street, after approval was granted by the planning committee at Durham County Council.

A previous application by Harbour House Farms for 150 days a year was rejected in January after objections by residents and the Ministry of Justice.

Councillors were told judges sitting in the region use the 18th Century Southill Hall for preparatory work when court on the North-East circuit are not in session.

But the renewed application, with fewer painballing days, was granted last week, in spite of further objections.

Richard Newsome, a planning agent on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, said: “The judges require a peaceful environment while they undertake their important preparatory work. The changes will still result in weekday action.

“These proposals will have a significant negative impact on the amenity and the important work of the judges in residence.”

The committee heard Kimblesworth Parish Council is against the development and one nearby resident said it would be like "living in the middle of a battle zone".

As well as the impact on the quality of life for residents, concerns were raised about the effect the plan would have on parking and highway safety.

The applicant has said the plan would create two full-time and 20 part-time jobs.

Durham County Councillor Jim Cordon said: “Judges really do need peace and quiet. They do have an awful job, mixing with some awful people to keep us safe. Bringing paintball here will be detrimental to what we are trying achieve for our judges.”

But senior planning officer Steve France wrote a report recommending the application should be granted.

He said: “It is noted the applicant only proposes to use the site at weekends, Bank Holidays and up to two days during any week.

“It is a purely day time activity when background noise levels are at their highest.” Operation of the site is restricted to between the hours of 8.30am-5.30pm, with game play between the hours of 10am-4pm only.

The application was approved after members of the committee voted eight to five in favour.