Council housing plans aims to tackle homelessness
Getty ImagesAbout 40 new council homes could be built on a plot of land earmarked for development.
Darlington Borough Council's cabinet will vote on Tuesday whether to build the homes on a 2.7 acre (1.1 ha) plot of land at Sparrow Hall Drive.
The council said the proposal was designed to help tackle homelessness and give families and older residents the chance to stay in the town.
Councillor Matthew Roche said the homes would help people find a "safe secure and affordable place to live".
"We need more social rented homes in Darlington, and this proposal paves the way for new properties that would give local people a real opportunity to put down roots in their own community," he said.
"Using council land in this way means we can focus on quality, affordability and long‑term benefit rather than maximising profit."
The council said the homes would be prioritised for local people, with rents set at social rent levels rather than higher market prices.
Councillors will also be asked to grant a right of access to the owner of the adjoining Elm Tree Farm, where residential property could be built.
Both areas have been earmarked for residential development in the council's local plan.
Any future housing developments would be subject to full planning permission.
