I REFER to Ian Noble’s recent article about a plan to build hundreds of new homes in Spennymoor (Echo, June 26).

Previously, Sedgefield Borough Council had stipulated that this land must be kept for industrial usage.

The majority of the people I talk to agreed. They hoped the authority would attract new industries and possible spin offs from the new Hitachi train factory at Aycliffe. Local people are crying out for local jobs.

I opposed the plans, on the basis that there is already more than 2,000 new homes in the pipeline.

It may be good for council tax revenue, but I question if our doctors’ surgeries and other services can cope.

I noticed that house building has started at Merrington Lane, on the former Thorn Site.

I, like all other councillors, on Sedgefield Borough Council, supported this application, on the basis that Thorn would relocate into a new, purpose-built factory. The Thorn factory is now a reality.

The Merrington Lane housing development will enhance the Low Spennymoor environment.

However, I would question, why we need so many houses in County Durham.

Has the population increased or decreased over the past five years?

Is it not a fact that many older houses will be left empty, due to the current economic situation?

Alderman Ben Ord, Liberal Democrat, Spennymoor.