But the resubmitted application stated that regional development agency One NorthEast had offered to relocate the pond over the road. Workers at Stanland were outraged.
Lesley John, credit controller at the firm, said: "We want this pond to stay where it is.
"A lot of our staff enjoy spending their break sat next to the pond, watching the wildlife. We know there's fish in there because we've seen people fishing.
"We also see staff from other local companies enjoying the pond, and we are hoping they will back us in trying to save it."
Jeremy Garside, chief executive of Tees Valley Wildlife Trust, said a wildlife survey last year found smooth newts, and it was possible crested newts had also moved in.
"It would be physically possible to move wildlife to a pond across the road," he said. "But it's important if people are using and enjoying a habitat that they still have access."
A spokesman for Stockton Council confirmed the original application, by Orblux Ltd, was refused but said a revised application had been received. Tony Duncombe, company secretary for Orblux, said: "We will be working closely with the authorities to minimise any environmental impact if advised there is one." One Northeast said the land where they proposed to relocate the pond had been sold to Buildings for Business, but confirmed the pond would still be moved if the planning application was successful.
