Developer's plan to build 46 homes near Roman fort fails
Date of alert:
Friday, 25 March 2022
Crime Ref:
Force:
Durham Constabulary
A plan to build up to 46 homes near the site of an ancient Roman fort has been roundly rejected.
Councillors heard it was rare for a plan to fall down on so many fronts.
Not least among them was the "irreversible and permanent harm" to a historic monument site which is nearly 2,000 years old.
The outline plan for up to 46 houses was proposed for land west of Briardene, Cadger Bank, Lanchester, near the Roman fort and settlement Longovicium.
The fort was said to be the most important in the county, of "national importance".
The site originates in the 2nd century, with the remains of a civilian settlement and gardens, and a Roman road running alongside it.
The ancient monument area covers 74 hectares, with archaeological Roman remains extending beyond.
Concerns over the plan were aired at Durham County Council's planning committee meeting on Thursday (March 24).
Senior planning officer Steve France said there were 85 objections from the public, including a "very engaged" village.
