More than 400 new homes are set to be built in the first phase of a major new neighbourhood in Darlington's West End after detailed planning consent was issued.

Bellway has secured approval from Darlington Borough Council to construct 428 homes on a 56-acre site off Staindrop Road, following the council’s decision on Monday 29 September. The development, to be known as Baydale Village, will comprise 300 private homes and 128 affordable properties.

Baydale Village forms part of a wider masterplan for up to 985 homes, alongside proposed community facilities including a GP surgery, shop, sports pitches, and land for a primary and early years school. Outline planning permission for the overall neighbourhood was granted last year.

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Mark Gabriele, Head of Land for Bellway Durham, said: "Baydale Village is the largest project we have yet undertaken at Bellway Durham so gaining reserved matters approval for phase 1 is a landmark moment for us.

"The site was allocated for housing in the Darlington Local Plan, and our development will provide exactly what this area needs in terms of high-quality homes that people will enjoy living in, in the years ahead.

"And with 30 per cent of the properties being designated as affordable homes, there are opportunities here for people to have a home at Baydale Village through rental, shared ownership or First Homes for discounted sale.

"This will be a very attractive development to buyers because of the variety of modern, energy-efficient homes we have planned. The green open spaces provided combined with the convenient location will be beneficial for customers. A neighbourhood of this size will deliver a significant boost to the local economy, creating jobs and supporting businesses."

The scheme will be delivered jointly by Bellway Durham and Ashberry Homes North East, part of the Bellway Group. Construction is expected to begin in December, with the first homes scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.