Plans in for County Durham homes

Local housebuilder Believe Developments wants to deliver 46 homes at Seaton Village, west of the A19, two miles from Seaham.

Designs for the Hillrise Crescent scheme include houses and bungalows, with seven affordable homes proposed within the mix. The project would include a village green amid new landscaping, access roads and pathways.

The scheme is expected to be considered by Durham County Council’s area planning committee this autumn. Should approval be obtained, building work will follow, with the first phase of homes available in late 2024.

Hedley Planning Services is advising the developer. Alex Franklin, senior planner at the consultancy, 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, said: “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.”