The Darlington Green Party and Skerningham Woods Action Group are fighting the decision to build on the green belt land.

Nearby residents have raised concerns about the effect on the environment, infrastructure such as schools, drainage and sewage networks, and the mental health of those who come there to connect with nature.

Skerningham Garden Village’s overall allocation is made up of a 1,203-acre (487 hectare) site close to the Whinfield, Beaumont Hill, Great Burdon and Barmpton areas of Darlington.