Dozens of objectors gathered in Darlington on Wednesday (September 4), as they voiced concerns about a garden village scheme that could see over 4,500 homes built in the coming years.

People who opposed the Skerningham Garden Village scheme gathered on Barmpton Lane to show concern towards the plans.

Many of those who gathered on Wednesday had placards reading messages of objection against the masterplan development, with some reading: 'Stop killing our countryside' and others stating: 'Wildlife needs your protection'.

Some of the signs against the Skerningham Garden VillageSome of the signs against the Skerningham Garden Village (Image: CHRISTINE TURFORD)

This gathering in Darlington comes several weeks after the first hybrid proposal for up to 450 homes was submitted by Skerningham Estates Ltd

Alongside the homes, a new retail store and pub could also be built on the site during the first phase of development. 

One of the signs against the Skerningham Garden VillageOne of the signs against the Skerningham Garden Village (Image: CHRISTINE TURFORD)

Of the 450 proposed homes, 90 of those would be categorised as “affordable”. 

Up to 1,650 houses and facilities such as a GP surgery and schools could be built at the Skerningham Garden Village, to the north of Darlington, by 2036, with a further 4,500 homes planned on the site in the future.

The developer Skerningham Estates says it will create a “liveable and sustainable community, designed around prioritising residents’ health, well-being and overall quality of life”.

But those who chose to gather on Wednesday have concerns that wildlife, trees and plants will be lost, while fears over using the 'narrow' Barmpton Lane as the only access into the development is also a sticking point for objectors.

At the Skerningham gathering on Wednesday, people heard from Dave Clark of Skerningham Woodland Action Group; Matthew Snedker, leader of the Green Party group on the council; his deputy Bryony Holroyd and Councillor Anna Toms.