Welcome
Welcome to this consultation website for the proposed development of approximately 34 affordable homes on land at Foxglove Drive, Etherley Dene, Bishop Auckland.
Ways to get involved
We want to hear your thoughts on the proposal. You can get involved by:
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Attending the in-person consultation event at Toft Hill and Etherley Community Centre on 2nd December 2025 at 3:30pm – 7pm
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If you are unable to use the online questionnaire or attend the in-person event, please email us at foxglovedrive@lichfields.uk
Proposed Development
It is proposed to develop a 100% affordable housing scheme, comprising approximately 34 new homes designed to meet local housing needs.
Proposed Site Plan
Click on the above image to view a larger version
​The development will include:
New affordable homes: 100% of the homes will be affordable.
4 of the homes will be bungalows, designed to meet the local needs of the area and provide homes which are adaptable for a variety of requirements over the lifetime of the occupants (ie wheelchair accessible).
The remaining 30 homes will comprise 2 & 3 bed houses. The exact tenure of the homes will be confirmed during the determination of the planning application.
Energy efficient design: All homes will utilise air source heat pumps and solar panels. Together, this improves the energy efficiency of the homes and helps minimise the effects of climate change. All new homes will achieve an EPC Rating A.
Connections to Etherley Dene: The main pedestrian and vehicular access is provided via Lupin Close. This will also link to the existing Public Right of Way to the south of the site, providing access to Foxglove Drive and then bus stops on Etherley Lane.
Attractive Landscaping: The proposed development includes a range of landscaping features. This includes tree planting and the provision of green space throughout the site, alongside additional tree planting to provide a buffer between new and existing properties to the south.
CGI's of proposed buildings
Site Analysis
A full suite of technical reports will be prepared and submitted as part of the planning application. Technical assessments of the site are on-going and will be informed by the outcomes of this public consultation exercise. The following provides a summary of how the proposal intends to address each discipline, based on work done to date.
Design
The design of the scheme has been informed by the layout of surrounding residential streets within Etherley. The proposed homes are also informed by local house types.
The layout will provide a buffer between the proposed homes and the existing homes to the south, ensuring the development does not create any privacy and amenity issues for residents. Amenity green space and tree lined streets will be provided throughout.
Benefits
Social benefits
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Providing new, high quality and secure affordable homes to help families remain in the local area.
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Providing accessible and adaptable affordable homes, meeting local needs.
Environmental benefits
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Energy efficient design with air source heat pumps and solar panels.
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Provision of EV charging points at each home.
Economic benefits
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Direct and indirect jobs throughout the construction period.
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Generation of additional expenditure in local shops and support for amenities in the local area.
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Providing a boost to Durham County Council’s revenue through increased Council tax receipts and New Homes Bonus.
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Developer contributions are envisaged to help improve local infrastructure.
Next Steps
We want to hear your thoughts on the proposed development.
Click here to complete the feedback form.
After considering the comments received during this consultation, the next steps will be:
After considering the comments received during this consultation, the next steps will be:
Submission of a planning application
(Winter 2025)
The Council will formally consult with the local community
(Winter 2025)
Target for determination of the planning application by the Council
(Spring 2026)
If approved, construction to commence on site
(Summer/Autumn 2026)