Villagers raise thousands to battle plans to build a Gypsy site close to their homes - County Durham

From the Northern Echo

MORE than £7,000 has been raised by villagers battling against plans to build a Gypsy site close to their homes.

Residents of Heighington, near Darlington, pooled their resources to fight a controversial planning application that could see two fields at Walworth Road converted to accommodate Gypsies and Travellers.

At a public meeting held in March, a door to door fundraising drive was suggested by members of the Heighington and District Support Group, a steering committee set up to represent villagers.

Of the thousands of pounds raised so far, some of it has been spent on securing the services of planning professional Katherine Brooker, of Newcastle firm Dickinson Dees LLP, who will represent the support group at an upcoming Planning Committee meeting.

Since her appointment, Ms Brooker has made a site visit and submitted a report to the leading planning officer at Darlington Borough Council.

More than 400 objections to the plans have been lodged with the council since the application was submitted in early February, with many residents saying the proposals will significantly impact on the landscape, cause congestion and put pressure on already stretched amenities in their village.

If the proposals are approved, the two fields will be converted to accommodate two mobile homes, two touring caravans, two amenity buildings, a septic tank and an access road.

The application will be considered at a planning meeting set to take place at Darlington Town Hall on Wednesday, May 8 from 1.30pm.