The 97.1-hectare Copelaw scheme will feature a series of interlinked neighbourhoods set out around a central spine road. This would connect to sustainable transport options including walking and cycling routes and a bus route that feeds into the local network.

The plans feature a new primary school, as well as a local centre at the site’s northern entry point, providing shops and services as well as local employment creation.

Matt Naylor, Team Lead – Strategic Land at the Church Commissioners for England said: “Our plans for the Newton Aycliffe scheme would provide high-quality, sustainable housing that meets the needs and aspirations of residents.

“Importantly, it features extensive social, environmental and transport infrastructure, including a local primary school, green open space, elderly care provision, and shops and services to create a thriving, well-connected community.”

The Church Commissioners for England’s strategic land portfolio has the capacity to deliver approximately 30,000 homes, around 9,000 of which were subject to live planning applications in 2023.

Recent planning permissions include a 1,000-home community in Bracebridge Heath, Lincolnshire and the first phase of a 650-home community in Northallerton, North Yorkshire.

The Church Commissioners for England and Durham County Council will be the site’s joint landowners.