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Weekly updates
Northumberland: Late-Night Music, Affordable Housing, Council Tax
This week in Northumberland:
Ashington Residents Object to Late-Night Music at The Tipsy Bean
The Northumberland Council Licensing Hearing convened to consider an application for a premises licence for The Tipsy Bean in Ashington. The application, submitted by Michelle Henderson, sought permission for the supply of alcohol and regulated entertainment. Read more about the Licensing Hearing.
- Objections: A local resident of Langwell Crescent objected to the application, raising concerns about noise, traffic, anti-social behaviour, and the impact on residential amenity.
- Amended Application: Following initial objections, Ms Henderson proposed amendments to the timings for the supply of alcohol and regulated entertainment, and removed live and recorded music from the application.
- Resident Concerns: The resident's letter of objection cited concerns about noise from late-night music, customers, taxis, and deliveries, as well as traffic congestion, anti-social behaviour, and the unsuitability of the location due to the area's primarily residential character.
- Council Policy: The report noted that in considering the application, the members should have regard to the council's statement of licensing policy, specifically the introduction (3.1 – 3.1.6), premises licences applications (schedule 2), decision making process (schedule 5) and prevention of public nuisance (appendix C).
The decision highlights the tension between supporting local businesses and protecting the quality of life for residents.
Affordable Housing Plan for Hexham Green Belt Sparks Controversy
The West Planning Committee was scheduled to consider an outline planning application for the construction of up to 21 dwellings on green belt land north of Red Lion House in Hexham. The application has drawn objections due to its location on green belt land, but is supported by the council due to the provision of 100% affordable housing. Read more about the West Planning Committee meeting.
- Green Belt Concerns: The planning officer's report acknowledged that the development would encroach into the countryside and impact on the Green Belt1.
- Affordable Housing Need: The report also noted that the site is adjacent to the built-up area of Hexham, and that existing development extends further east. The report also stated that the development would not impact on the historic setting of Hexham, or cause neighbouring towns to merge.
- Local Objections: Hexham Town Council objected to the proposal, arguing that it was on green belt land, and unsustainably distant from the town centre compared to brownfield sites2 within the town.
- Financial Contributions: The applicant had agreed to make contributions towards healthcare (£15,246), education (£48,000), highways infrastructure (£30,800) and open space (£29,005.05).
- Planning Officer Recommendation: The planning officer's report recommended that the application be granted permission, subject to a Section 106 agreement3 securing the contributions and affordable housing, and subject to relevant planning conditions. The decision raises questions about the balance between protecting green spaces and addressing the need for affordable housing.
Council Approves Changes to Council Tax Support Scheme, Impacting Low-Income Families
The cabinet approved a new income banded/grid scheme for working age applicants for Council Tax Support, effective from 1 April 2026. The aim is to improve support for the lowest income families and reduce the administrative burden caused by the introduction of Universal Credit. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- New Income Grid: The proposed scheme replaces the current means-tested system with a simpler income grid model.
- Passported Benefits: Claimants receiving a 'passported benefit' such as Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance (Income Based), and Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related) will receive maximum discount.
- Increased Earnings Disregards: The scheme includes increased earnings disregards for single persons and couples.
- Capital Limit: A capital limit of £8,000 will be in place, with no tariff income being applied.
- Hardship Scheme: The new scheme will also include provisions to protect vulnerable claimants who experience exceptional hardship, with a hardship scheme created for this purpose, with funds available of £1m in 2026-27.
- Efficiency Savings: The report also stated that a simplified banded scheme brings the potential for significant savings in claims administration, with estimated annual efficiency savings of up to £374,000.
The changes aim to simplify the system and provide more support to those most in need, but the impact on individual households will depend on their specific circumstances.
Other Matters
- The cabinet formally adopted the Northumberland Coast National Landscape Management Plan 2025-2030 for the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The plan sets out a vision for the management of the designated area and formulates the council's policy for carrying out its functions in relation to it. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The cabinet agreed to adopt the proposed new Housing Allocation Policy, ensuring it remains fair, transparent, and fit for purpose. The revised policy reflects statutory requirements and addresses current housing pressures by prioritising those in greatest need, making best use of limited social housing stock, and aligning with the council's wider homelessness prevention objectives. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The cabinet endorsed the approval of the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) and Lease for the Northumberland Hall, Alnwick to Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery (BMG). They also delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place and Regeneration to approve the CAT and Lease, subject to compliance with subsidy control requirements. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The cabinet noted the progress made against the Corporate Plan priorities as summarised in the Q1/Q2 Corporate Performance Report. The report provided a summary of the progress against the council's three Corporate Plan priorities: Achieving Value for Money, Driving Economic Growth, and Tackling Inequalities. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The cabinet noted the education achievements of children, young people, and residents across Northumberland in 2024-25, as well as the valuable support provided to all learners within early years settings and schools, special education needs support and service, the Virtual School, the Skills Service, and school organisation and resources. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The cabinet approved the spend of £0.150 million in 2025-26 for the replacement of the existing sewer and septic tank at Allenheads Public Toilets. This spend will be funded from council resources from the existing Property Stewardship Fund project in the capital programme. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The cabinet also approved the spend of £0.450 million (£0.110 million in 2025-26 and £0.340 million in 2026-27) to undertake the full replacement of three boilers in plant room one and three boilers in plant room two in County Hall. This spend will be funded from council resources from the existing Property Stewardship Fund project in the capital programme. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:
- The Rights of Way Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 17 December 2025 to discuss a request from Newton-by-the-Sea Parish Council regarding a Commons Scheme, and reviews of the definitive map and statement of public rights of way for routes in Wallington, Alnwick, Tosson and Rothbury.
- The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 17 December 2025 to discuss the Infrastructure Funding Statement, and to review its work programme for the coming year.
-
Green Belts are areas of land around towns and cities that are protected from development in order to prevent urban sprawl. ↩
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Brownfield sites are areas of land that have been previously developed. ↩
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Section 106 agreements are legal agreements between local authorities and developers that are used to mitigate the impact of new developments. ↩
Hexham Fire Station Site Sparks Debate, Data Centre Approved
This week in Northumberland:
Hexham Fire Station Site Sparks Debate: Depot Expansion vs. Gormley Gallery
The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss a controversial decision regarding the former Hexham Fire Station site. The debate centres on whether to use the site for a vehicle maintenance workshop or to offer it to Sir Antony Gormley1 for an art store and gallery. Read more about the Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- The Stakes: The council argues that expanding the Tyne Mills Depot is crucial for improving staff welfare, meeting operational demands, and enhancing recycling services mandated by the Environment Act 2021.
- Gormley's Vision: Sir Antony Gormley has proposed transforming the site into a cultural facility, potentially bringing £1.4m–£2.8m annually to the town.
- Call-in Concerns: Councillors requested the meeting to address concerns that the decision was not taken in accordance with Article 13 of the council's constitution, specifically regarding proportionality, consultation, and human rights.
- Public Petition: A public petition requesting the council to sell the site to Sir Antony Gormley was launched prior to the Cabinet meeting where the decision was made.
- Financial Implications: The council estimates that using an alternative site for the depot expansion would cost an additional £1.5m.
- Staff Morale: The council claims that morale is low among fleet staff at Tyne Mills due to poor working conditions, making the depot expansion a priority.
The decision has sparked public debate, with some residents favouring the cultural benefits of a Gormley gallery and others supporting the council's focus on essential services.
Data Centre Development Approved Amid Environmental Concerns
The Strategic Planning Committee approved a reserved matters application for a data centre at the former Blyth Power Station site in Cambois. The decision has raised concerns about water use, energy supply, and emissions. Read more about the Strategic Planning Committee meeting.
- The Project: Renaissance Land Limited plans to build two three-story data centres, each containing 55 diesel-powered generators for emergency power.
- Economic Benefits: The data centres are expected to create jobs and attract investment to the area.
- Environmental Impact: One objection raised concerns about the development's impact on water resources, energy consumption, and air quality.
- Waste Heat Reuse: The data centres are designed to allow for the capture and reuse of waste heat via a district heating network2.
- Biodiversity Net Gain: The approval is subject to a Section 106 agreement3 to secure biodiversity net gain4 through habitat creation and enhancement.
While the council highlights the economic benefits of the data centre, concerns remain about its environmental footprint and the reliance on diesel generators.
Bedlington Regeneration Plans Discussed, No Video Available
The Cramlington, Bedlington & Seaton Valley Community Partnership met to discuss updates on the Bedlington Town Centre regeneration, the Concordia Leisure Centre, and the Destination Management Plan. Read more about the Cramlington, Bedlington & Seaton Valley Community Partnership meeting.
- Bedlington Place Programme: The County Council Regeneration Team provided an update on the delivery of the Bedlington Place Plan, supported by up to £3 million of County Council and Borderlands funding.
- Active Travel Corridor: An update was shared on the Bedlington Active Travel Corridor, including achievements and upcoming plans.
- Destination Management Plan: The meeting identified community-specific views and priorities to integrate into the Plan for sustainable growth.
- Community Chest: A verbal update was provided on the first round of Community Chest applications.
Unfortunately, no video of the meeting was provided, limiting the available information.
Other Matters
- The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet to discuss the use of the former Hexham Fire Station site, but the meeting was cancelled. Read more about the Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:
- The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025 to discuss performance data from Places for People Leisure, and to receive an update on the UK Government's Simpler Recycling policy.
- The Rights of Way Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 17 December 2025 to discuss a request from Newton-by-the-Sea Parish Council regarding a Commons Scheme, and reviews of the definitive map and statement of public rights of way for routes in Wallington, Alnwick, Tosson and Rothbury.
- The West Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 09 December 2025 to discuss a planning application for residential development and to review a report on Section 106 agreements.
- The Licensing Hearing is scheduled to meet on Thursday 11 December 2025 to consider an application for a premises licence for The Tipsy Bean in Ashington.
- The Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 09 December 2025 to discuss the council's financial performance, proposed changes to the council tax support scheme, and strategies for housing, education and environmental management.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Northumberland Coast National Landscape Partnership on Thursday 18 December 2025.
-
Sir Antony Gormley is a British sculptor, widely known for his public sculptures including the Angel of the North. ↩
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A district heating network is a system for distributing heat generated in a centralised location for residential and commercial heating requirements. ↩
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Section 106 agreements are legal agreements between local authorities and developers, used to mitigate the impact of new developments on the community and infrastructure. ↩
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Biodiversity net gain is an approach to development that aims to leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than it was beforehand. ↩
Recycling Changes Delayed; Thropton Speed Limit Rejected
This week in Northumberland:
Recycling Revolution Delayed: New Bins Won't Arrive Until Late 2026
The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed the rollout of the new kerbside recycling collections, revealing that residents won't see changes until at least October 2026, and potentially later. This delay is due to the need for significant upgrades to the West Sleekburn Materials Recycling Facility (MRF). Read more about the Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- Bin Changes: As previously announced, households will receive a new black bin with a burgundy lid for paper, card, and cardboard.
- Extended Recycling: The changes are driven by the government's Simpler Recycling policy, requiring councils to collect a wider range of materials, including plastic pots, tubs, trays, and flexible plastics.
- MRF Upgrade: All options for implementing the new service require significant changes to the MRF, impacting the timeframe.
- Contingency Costs: Transporting recyclable waste to an alternative MRF while West Sleekburn is being refurbished would cost approximately £150,000 per month.
- Bin Accommodation: For a small proportion of households where an additional wheeled bin is not possible, the council will discuss options, which may include communal bins or more limited recycling services.
The delay means residents will have to wait longer to recycle a wider range of materials, and the council faces the challenge of managing the transition while minimizing disruption.
Thropton Residents' Plea for 20mph Zone Rejected
The North Northumberland Community Partnership discussed a petition from Thropton residents requesting a 20mph speed limit in the village, but the council has rejected the proposal. The decision is based on national guidance and speed surveys that did not indicate a speeding problem. Read more about the North Northumberland Community Partnership meeting.
- Petition Demands: Residents requested 20mph signage, road markings, and digital speed signs.
- Council Response: The council stated that it follows national guidance and does not permit 20mph limits on through routes.
- Speed Survey Results: Speed surveys did not indicate a speeding concern, with average speeds below 30mph at each location.
- Accident Data: According to Northumbria Police, there have been no personal injury collisions in the village in the last three years.
- School Zone: The road past Thropton Village First School already has advisory
20 when lights flash
signage during school hours. - Gateway Improvements: Gateway improvements are planned as part of planning conditions for developments near the village, including new signage and an extended 30mph speed limit to the west.
This decision is likely to disappoint Thropton residents who feel that a 20mph zone would improve safety in the village.
Workforce Report Highlights Staffing Challenges and Future Plans
The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the Annual Workforce Report 2024/25, which provides an overview of the council's People and Culture service activity and key people metrics. The report identifies both achievements and areas still to be addressed. Read more about the Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- Key Achievements: The report noted the introduction of a job architecture framework, increased social media presence for talent acquisition, and the commencement of strategic workforce planning.
- Staff Bank: The Staff Bank has developed bespoke campaigns to target roles in service areas where agency use has been historically high.
- Areas for Improvement: Areas still to be addressed include the re-design of the careers website, succession planning, and the development of a learning and development plan.
- Sickness Absence: Sickness absence rates had increased marginally (0.07%) when compared to the same period last year, but a reducing trend was being seen month on month.
- Future Focus: The People and Culture team's focus for the coming year will concentrate on building upon the foundations established by the People and Culture strategy, supporting organisational change and delivery of the corporate plan through the council's people.
The report provides valuable insights into the council's workforce and the challenges it faces in attracting, retaining, and developing its employees.
Audit Committee Reviews Financial Management and Standards
The Audit and Standards Committee reviewed treasury management, audit plans, standards updates, and external audit reports. The committee also recommended an Independent Person to the council. Read more about the Audit and Standards Committee meeting.
- External Audit: The committee received reports from Forvis Mazars, the external auditor, including the Audit Completion Report and the Draft Auditor's Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2025.
- Standards Update: The committee recommended the appointment of Mr Simon Walker as Independent Person for a period of four years.
- Treasury Management: The committee reviewed the Treasury Management Mid-Year Report 2025-26, which provides a review of borrowing and investment performance between 1 April and 30 September 2025.
- Strategic Audit Plan: The committee received an interim monitoring statement in respect of the Strategic Audit Plan for 2025/26.
- Internal Audit Reports: The committee was advised of key outcomes from Internal Audit reports issued between May and October 2025.
The committee's work is essential for ensuring the council's financial stability and ethical standards.
Other Matters
- The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee received performance data from Places for People Leisure (PfPL), the council's leisure provider, for the period 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025. Read more about the Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- The North Northumberland Community Partnership discussed appointments to outside bodies, including the Alnwick Town AFC Board/Management Committee, the Amble Development Trust, and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne Community Development Trust. Read more about the North Northumberland Community Partnership meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:
- The Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 02 December 2025 to discuss a reserved matters application for a data centre in Cambois, and to note an update on Section 106 agreements.
- The Staff and Appointments Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025.
- The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025.
- The Cramlington, Bedlington & Seaton Valley Community Partnership are scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, at Bedlington Community Centre.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Cabinet on Tuesday 09 December 2025.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Health and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Monday 08 December 2025.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Planning and Environment Committee on Thursday 11 December 2025.
Longhirst Safety Petition Rejected, Bamburgh Hotel Plan Stalled
This week in Northumberland:
Longhirst Residents' Safety Concerns Dismissed: Council Rejects Petition for Speed Reductions
The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership discussed a petition from Longhirst residents requesting measures to improve pedestrian safety, including reduced speed limits and traffic calming. The council has rejected the key demands, citing national guidance and a lack of supporting data. Read more about the Castle Morpeth Community Partnership meeting.
- Petition Demands: Residents requested speed limit reductions to 40mph on roads leading into the village and 20mph within the village, along with traffic calming measures and a safe crossing point near the church.
- Council Response: The council stated that speed surveys did not indicate a speeding problem and that national guidance does not permit 20mph limits on through routes. They also deemed traffic calming measures unnecessary and potentially unpopular.
- Limited Action: The council will investigate dropped kerbs near the church and consider footpath improvements in the annual Local Transport Plan (LTP), but inclusion is not guaranteed.
- Past Concerns: Road safety concerns in Longhirst were previously raised, leading to a 2018 feasibility study. However, the council stated it has no plans to fund further improvements through the LTP.
This decision is likely to disappoint Longhirst residents who feel unsafe due to traffic. The council's reliance on existing data and national guidelines raises questions about its responsiveness to local concerns.
Blyth and Ashington Regeneration Projects Highlighted, Sports Development Discussed
The Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership met to discuss regeneration projects and sports development in the area. Presentations were given on the Blyth Celebrates and Animating Ashington projects, as well as sports development initiatives in Ashington and Newbiggin. Read more about the Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership meeting.
- Blyth Celebrates and Animating Ashington: Presentations were given by Rob Strettle, Regeneration Manager, and Wendy Scott, Economic Development and Growth, on these projects.
- Sports Development: Kathie Keady presented on sports development in Ashington and Newbiggin.
- Appointments to Outside Bodies: Councillors were asked to nominate members for appointment to various organisations, including the Blyth Valley Disabled Forum and Community and Voluntary Action Blyth Valley.
- A197 Crossing: The meeting was scheduled to receive updates on a petition regarding a safe crossing on the A197 in Ashington.
These discussions highlight the council's ongoing efforts to revitalize Blyth and Ashington, focusing on both economic development and community well-being.
Bamburgh Hotel Plan Stalled: North Planning Committee Meeting Cancelled
A meeting of the North Planning Committee, scheduled to discuss a planning application for a hotel in Bamburgh, was cancelled. The application sought to convert self-catering cottages and former hospitality premises into a single hotel with six en-suite guest bedrooms. Read more about the North Planning Committee meeting.
- Application Details: The application, 25/02393/FUL, proposed converting 5-6 Front Street, Bamburgh into a hotel with dining/bar areas, a kitchen, and associated facilities.
- Officer Recommendation: The planning officer, Stephanie Forster, recommended approval, subject to a coastal mitigation contribution.
- Objections: Bamburgh Parish Council and neighbouring properties, including the Victoria Hotel, raised concerns about parking and the impact on the area.
The cancellation means a delay in the decision-making process for this controversial application, which has drawn both support and opposition from the local community.
Other Matters
- The Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 2 December 2025 to discuss a reserved matters application for a data centre in Cambois, and to note an update on Section 106 agreements. Read more about the Strategic Planning Committee meeting.
- The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 24 November 2025 to discuss the annual workforce report, receive an update on the BEST programme, and review its work programme for the 2025-26 council year. Read more about the Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- The Audit and Standards Committee of Northumberland County Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, to review treasury management, audit plans, standards updates, and external audit reports. Read more about the Audit and Standards Committee meeting.
- The Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee are scheduled to meet to discuss performance data from Places for People Leisure, the future of kerbside recycling collections, and the committee's work programme for the coming year. Read more about the Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- The Adults Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 27 November 2025 to discuss a petition requesting a 20mph speed limit in Thropton, and a discussion about appointments to outside bodies. Read more about the Adults Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:
- The Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 02 December 2025 to discuss a reserved matters application for a data centre in Cambois, and to note an update on Section 106 agreements.
- The Staff and Appointments Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025.
- The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025.
New bins for Northumberland: Recycling changes approved
This week in Northumberland:
Recycling Changes Approved: New Bins and Collection Dates Coming
Northumberland County Council's cabinet has approved a new kerbside recycling collection model, set to roll out from October 2026. The decision means changes to the bins you use and potentially when your recycling is collected. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- New Bins: Expect a black bin with a burgundy lid for paper, card, and cardboard.
- Expanded Recycling: You'll be able to recycle more items, including plastic pots, tubs, trays, and flexible plastics, in line with the Environment Act 2021.
- Investment Needed: The council will need to invest in a major rebuild of the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) at West Sleekburn.
- Potential Delays: The council warns of
significant risks
to the October 2026 timeframe due to ongoing contract negotiations.
The council is legally obliged to make these changes under the government's Simpler Recycling requirements1, but the practical impact on residents remains to be seen.
Berwick Hospital Services Under Scrutiny: What's Changing?
The Health and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss patient services at the new Berwick Community Hospital. While no transcript is available, the meeting was set to include an overview from NHS colleagues on existing, proposed, and confirmed new patient services. Read more about the Health and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.
- GP Access: The committee was scheduled to discuss GP access, mental health support, and pharmacy services as part of its work programme.
- Healthwatch Report: The committee was scheduled to review the annual report from Healthwatch Northumberland for 2024-2025, which included an improvement plan for audiology services and visits to care homes.
- Pharmaceutical Needs: The committee was scheduled to discuss the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) 2025-28, which identified a gap in pharmacy provision in Newsham following a pharmacy closure.
Without a transcript, it's difficult to know the specifics of the discussion, but the agenda suggests a focus on ensuring access to vital healthcare services in the Berwick area.
Schools Forum Examines SEND Crisis: Exclusions and Funding Under the Microscope
The Schools' Forum discussed special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) data, school funding, and national SEND reforms. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by vulnerable children and the pressures on school budgets. Read more about the Schools' Forum meeting.
- Rising Exclusions: Permanent exclusions of primary school-aged children and those with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) have risen, mirroring the national picture.
- SEND Reform: The forum discussed the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) report,
Breaking the Cycle: A Blueprint for SEND Reform,
which calls for a more inclusive education system and better support for children with SEND. - Funding Concerns: The forum discussed a letter from the f40 group2 expressing
deep disappointment at the further delays to the Schools White Paper and the much-anticipated SEND reforms,
and urging the government to address High Needs deficits.
The discussions underscore the ongoing challenges in providing adequate support for children with SEND and the need for sustainable funding solutions.
Other Matters
- The Cabinet approved several amendments to the capital programme3, including funding for the acquisition of mines and minerals rights under the former Hexham Middle School site, restoration of Northumberland Hall, and structural works at Tynedale House. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The Cabinet agreed to progress with plans for Depot expansion of the Tyne Mills Depot, and to continue discussions with the artist Sir Antony Gormley4 to progress plans for an art store and gallery in Hexham. Read more about the Cabinet meeting.
- The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met to discuss its constitution, annual report, and national issues. Read more about the SACRE meeting.
- The Health and Well-being Board were scheduled to discuss community mental health transformation work and receive an update on the Public Mental Health Strategy. Read more about the Health and Well-being Board meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:
- The Ashington & Blyth Community Partnership are scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, at Briardale House in Blyth.
- The Castle Morpeth Community Partnership is scheduled to meet on Monday 17 November 2025.
- The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 24 November 2025.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Family and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Communities and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025.
- A meeting is scheduled for the Adults Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 27 November 2025.
-
Simpler Recycling refers to the government's National Resources and Waste Strategy Consistency requirements, mandating a consistent set of recyclable materials to be collected across all local authorities in England. ↩
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The f40 group represents 43 of the lowest educationally-funded local authorities across England. ↩
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A capital programme is a plan of long-term investments that a council intends to make in infrastructure, land, buildings, and other assets. ↩
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Sir Antony Gormley is a British sculptor, widely known for his public sculptures including the Angel of the North. ↩
Licensing Hearing - Thursday, 11th December, 2025 2.00 pm
The Northumberland Council Licensing Hearing was scheduled to convene to address a single application for a premises licence. The hearing was also scheduled to include the election of a chair and disclosure of member's interests. Councillor Scott Amery, Councillor Trevor Cessford, Councillor Barry Elliott, and Councillor Alan Smith were scheduled to be in attendance.
Cabinet - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 10.00 am
The Northumberland County Council's cabinet convened to discuss and approve several key initiatives, including adopting the Northumberland Coast National Landscape Management Plan 2025-2030, implementing a new Housing Allocation Policy, and approving a revised Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026-27. They also reviewed the council's financial performance, new capital proposals, and corporate performance.
West Planning Committee - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 4.00 pm
Here is a summary of the scheduled discussions for the West Planning Committee meeting. The agenda included a planning application for residential development in Hexham, and a report on Section 106 agreements[^2].
Licensing Hearing - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 2.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
South East Planning Committee - Monday, 8th December, 2025 4.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Corporate Services and Economic Growth OSC - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 2.00 pm
The Corporate Services and Economic Growth Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) met to consider a call-in request regarding the cabinet's decision on the use of the former Hexham Fire Station site. The committee was also scheduled to discuss urgent business, if any arose.
Cramlington, Bedlington & Seaton Valley Community Partnership - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 5.00 pm
The Cramlington, Bedlington & Seaton Valley Community Partnership were scheduled to meet to discuss updates on the Concordia Leisure Centre, the Community Chest, and the Bedlington Town Centre regeneration. Councillors were also expected to nominate an appointee to the Beaconhill Community Association. Additionally, the Partnership was scheduled to discuss the Destination Management Plan.
Staff and Appointments Committee - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 2.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 4.00 pm
The Strategic Planning Committee of Northumberland County Council was scheduled to meet on 2 December 2025 to discuss a reserved matters application for a data centre and receive an update on Section 106 agreements[^2]. The meeting was also scheduled to include agreement of the minutes from a previous meeting, and declarations of interest from any of the councillors.
North Northumberland Community Partnership - Thursday, 27th November, 2025 6.00 pm
Here is a summary of the scheduled discussions for the North Northumberland Community Partnership meeting. The meeting was scheduled to include a discussion of a petition requesting a 20mph speed limit in Thropton, as well as appointments to outside bodies. Councillors were also expected to have an informal discussion session on topics including dementia care in Berwick and the Berwick Academy Build.
Rights of Way Committee - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 10.00 am
Communities and Place OSC - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 2.00 pm
Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee - Thursday, 18th December, 2025 10.00 am
North Planning Committee - Thursday, 18th December, 2025 2.00 pm