Plans for new homes in County Durham village could create over 140 new jobs

Plans for dozens of new homes in a County Durham village are being hailed as a welcome boost to the region’s housing stock.

The proposals from local housebuilder believe developments Limited would see a mix of 46 homes developed on land at Hillrise Crescent in Seaton Village, which is situated immediately west of the A19 and approximately two miles west of Seaham.

Designs include houses and bungalows built with private car parking spaces as part of a ‘much needed’ housing development for the local area. Seven affordable homes are also proposed and will help to create a vibrant village green-style community centred around new green landscaping, access roads and pathways.

The development could also see an estimated 142 construction and supply chain jobs created. The scheme is expected to be considered by Durham County Council’s Area Planning Committee this Autumn and should it get the green light, building work is then expected to follow shortly after with the first phase of homes available in late 2024.

The project comes as the Government continues to push for the delivery of new homes to meet the country’s chronic housing shortage and arrest the decline in the affordability of home ownership.

Alex Franklin, senior planner at planning specialist Hedley Planning Services, who has submitted the plans to Durham County Council’s planning department on behalf of believe developments Limited, said: “The proposed development would provide the clear benefit of delivering much needed housing for local people and creating a strong sense of community.

“As planners, we always want to see the creation of exciting and rewarding housing communities in the North East region that will leave a long-lasting legacy. This one will undoubtedly see a positive change in this part of County Durham and should be welcomed.”

Tom Winter, assistant director of development at believe housing, commented: “There is a pressing need for more high-quality homes in the region.

“We’ve aimed to design an attractive development that meets the needs of local people, creating a mix of property types and sizes to provide options for home-owners with varying needs and look forward to the scheme being considered by the Local Planning Authority.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily