PLANS to convert a disused garage into a wine shop look set to win approval despite objections from residents.

Lanchester Wine Cellars want to take over Maiden Law Garage, in Lanchester Road, Maiden Law, near Lanchester, which has been empty since 2006 when Morgan distributor I & J Macdonald Ltd moved out.

The company wants to sell ‘overstocked’ wine from its site at Tower Road, Greencroft.

But the application is being opposed by residents and Greencroft Parish Council.

Durham County Council has received ten objections to the scheme, including a petition bearing 26 names.

Planning officer Graham Blakey says in a report to Thursday's meeting of the north area planning committee that objectors are concerned about parking and traffic issues.

They are worried that vehicles will have to reverse into the main road and coming onto conflict with passing traffic and that parking problems in the area will be made worse if the plan goes ahead,

Mr Blakey says there are also concerns over the delivery, and unloading and loading arrangements for the planned shop.

Objectors also say that the number of road traffic accidents has increased over the years and that the speed of traffic going through the village is also a problem.

They also say the location is inappropriate and that the opening hours would affect the neighbouring residents.

In a statement the company says that four parking spaces are to be provided at the front of the site.

But all staff – there will only be three at any one time - will park their cars in the nearby Three Horse Shoes Public House car park, as agreed with the pub landlord.

The company adds:“In summary, the proposed alteration to the external fabric of the building respects its character, does not result in a loss of amenity to the neighbouring occupiers due to the removal of windows from the southern elevation, provides a service to the village, increases off street parking from two to four with no harm upon the interests of road safety and traffic management.”

Mr Blakey, in his conclusion to councillors, says: “Issues of parking and safe access to the site have been considered and are not viewed as being detrimental to highway safety.

“The opening hours of the proposed use are not considered unreasonable, it is a welcome introduction of a service to a small community and is considered acceptable.”

Councillors will be recommended to grant the application conditional approval.