Homes plan on 'vital' green space to be reviewed
GoogleA council decision to build homes on "vital" green space is set to be reviewed.
Cabinet members approved plans to build up to 40 properties at Sparrow Hall Drive in Whinfield, Darlington, earlier this month.
Council leaders said the housing would help tackle homelessness and give local people the chance to stay in the area.
But local councillors have requested an extraordinary scrutiny committee meeting to review the decision, after accusing the council of sacrificing the land "for a short-term financial gain".
Residents have campaigned to keep the site free from development, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Whinfield Conservative councillors Andy Keir and Jamie Bartch said there are "concerns that there is insufficient evidence to justify claims of 'much-needed demand' for housing".
They also questioned whether greenfield sites are being prioritised over brownfield areas.
They said there is "significant public concern" from residents, including worries of increased pressure on local roads and services.
"The land is not just a piece of open ground, it's a well-used community green space that plays a vital role in the character and unity of our area," they said.
'Practical and positive'
In 2022, the land at Sparrow Hall Drive was included in the council's housing allocation, making it available for development.
Springfield Park, also in the Whinfield ward, was later removed from the allocation, but Sparrow Hall Drive remained.
Labour councillor Matthew Roche, cabinet member for health and housing, said: "This proposal is about doing something practical and positive to help Darlington residents who are struggling to find a safe, secure and affordable place to live.
"We need more social rented homes in Darlington, and this proposal paves the way for new properties that would give local people a real opportunity to put down roots in their own community."
More than 1,000 families on the council's housing waiting list have named the Whinfield area of the borough as their preferred option for a new home, the council said.
A date has yet to be announced for the committee.
