Homes refused over lack of convenience shop

The housing plans for West Rainton were turned down

Plans for affordable homes have been refused over the lack of a new convenience store.

Woodside Commercial Developments wanted to build a total of 20 bungalows and two-storey houses near Station Road in West Rainton, County Durham.

West Rainton and Leamside Parish Council supported the development, noting the increasing demand and need for affordable homes in the area.

But the proposals were turned down by Durham County Council after objectors raised concerns over a new convenience store not being included in the proposal.

The site is part of a larger housing development currently being built by developer Banks Homes, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

It was outlined for commercial units in 2014 but did not receive any interest.

A statement from the applicant said there was "no retail demand for the commercial development site", and so after a consultation with Durham's planning department it was decided affordable housing would benefit the community.

A local petition voicing concerns over the lack of convenience stores and calling for a new shop at the site of the development has been signed by more than 330 people.