The Area Planning Committee (Central and East) of Durham County Council met on Tuesday 9 June 2026 to consider three planning applications. These included proposals for the erection of 25 dwellings at the former Easington Colliery Primary School, an outline planning application for two new dwellings at Fernhill, Crossgate Moor, and the construction of 36 dwellings on land north-east of Brandon United Football Club.

Easington Colliery Primary School Development

The committee was scheduled to discuss a full planning application for the erection of 25 dwellings, along with associated infrastructure and landscaping, at the former Easington Colliery Primary School site on Seaside Lane, Easington Colliery. The report pack indicated that the site, previously occupied by a school, had been cleared and was within the built-up area of a settlement. Concerns had been raised by objectors regarding a lack of car parking, increased traffic, and the proposed access points. The report also noted concerns from the Affordable Housing Officer regarding the proposed mix of first-floor flats, suggesting a preference for different house types to better address local needs. The applicant, the County Council's Housing Delivery Team, proposed that the development would consist of a mix of two-storey dwellings, bungalows, and flats, all intended for social rent as part of the Council Homes Programme. The report recommended approval, subject to conditions and financial contributions towards local infrastructure.

Fernhill, Crossgate Moor - Outline Planning Application

An outline planning application for access, with all other matters reserved, was scheduled for discussion concerning the construction of two dwellings with attached garages at Fernhill, Newcastle Road, Crossgate Moor. This application also included the demolition of a stable block and conservatory extension on Fernhill, and the erection of a garage. The site is located within the Green Belt, and the report indicated that the development was considered not inappropriate as it fell within an exception for previously developed land that would not cause substantial harm to the openness of the Green Belt. Objections had been raised by the City of Durham Parish Council and other local groups, primarily concerning the development being inappropriate in the Green Belt, the impact on its openness, and the potential for harm to the local landscape. The report noted that the applicant had agreed to a financial contribution towards improving public open spaces. The recommendation was for approval, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 planning obligation.

Land North East of Brandon United Football Club

The committee was also scheduled to consider a full planning application for the erection of 36 dwellings, with associated infrastructure and landscaping, on land north-east of Brandon United Football Club, Commercial Street, Brandon. The site, which previously housed terraced housing, is not allocated for development in the County Durham Plan but is situated within the built-up area of the settlement. The report indicated that all 36 proposed dwellings would be affordable housing, offered on a social rent basis, as part of the Council House Delivery Programme. Objections had been received from local residents concerning increased traffic, highway safety, the suitability of the proposed access, and potential amenity impacts during construction. The Parish Council supported the proposals, citing benefits to housing provision and community investment. The report recommended approval, subject to conditions and financial contributions towards local infrastructure, including GP surgery capacity, early years and secondary school places, SEND provision, public open spaces, and improvements to the local rights of way network.