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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

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.

  1. Sir Antony Gormley is a British sculptor, widely known for his public sculptures including the Angel of the North. ↩

  2. A district heating network is a system for distributing heat generated in a centralised location for residential and commercial heating requirements. ↩

  3. Section 106 agreements are legal agreements between local authorities and developers, used to mitigate the impact of new developments on the community and infrastructure. ↩

  4. 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

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

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

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

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

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

  1. 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. ↩

  2. The f40 group represents 43 of the lowest educationally-funded local authorities across England. ↩

  3. A capital programme is a plan of long-term investments that a council intends to make in infrastructure, land, buildings, and other assets. ↩

  4. Sir Antony Gormley is a British sculptor, widely known for his public sculptures including the Angel of the North. ↩

Polling Place Changes? Northumberland Council Update

This week in Northumberland:

Polling Place Changes Proposed: Will Your Voting Location Move?

Northumberland County Council met this week and was scheduled to discuss proposed changes to polling places across the county, potentially affecting where residents cast their votes. The review, required every five years, aims to ensure polling places are accessible and convenient. Read more about the Northumberland County Council meeting.

These changes aim to improve the accessibility and suitability of polling places, but residents are encouraged to check the final list to confirm their designated voting location.

Berwick Maltings Theatre Project Seeks Funding Boost

Northumberland County Council was scheduled to discuss a report regarding the Berwick Maltings Theatre project, and to approve a capital funding allocation of £4,045,786 to temporarily cashflow Borderlands funding. The project has secured approval 'in-principle' of £25,500,000 grant funding from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, but this funding is predicated on the approval of a Full Business Case (FBC) by the Borderlands Partnership Board. Read more about the Northumberland County Council meeting.

The report noted that failure by the Borderlands Partnership to approve the Full Business Case and award the grant would require the council to fund £2,706,719 of the £4,045,786 from revenue.

SEND Strategy Aims to Improve Outcomes for Vulnerable Children

The Family and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee were scheduled to meet to discuss the Northumberland Strategic SEND Strategy 2025-2028, which considers each of the Northumberland Corporate Plan Priorities. The strategy highlights how the Northumberland SEND Partnership Strategy was developed, its expected outcomes and how it strengthens the partnership between education, health and social care in delivering for Northumberland residents with SEND needs and their families. Read more about the Family and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

The strategy's joint vision is that children and young people with SEND in Northumberland have the best start in life, are safe, happy, healthy, confident, successful and well prepared for adult life. The Local Area SEND Partnership brings together Education, Health, and Social Care services, working alongside the Northumberland Parent Carer Forum and other strategic partners and groups.

The strategy outlines four strategic priorities:

  • Strong leadership and clear systems for SEND
  • Putting Children, Young People and Families First
  • Getting the right help at the right time
  • Making sure Children and Young People with SEND have their needs met as close to home as possible

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

Committee

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.

December 11, 2025
Committee

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.

December 09, 2025
Committee

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].

December 09, 2025
Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Hearing - Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 2.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

December 09, 2025
Committee CANCELLED

South East Planning Committee - Monday, 8th December, 2025 4.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

December 08, 2025
Committee

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.

December 03, 2025
Committee

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.

December 03, 2025
Committee CANCELLED

Staff and Appointments Committee - Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025 2.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

December 03, 2025
Committee

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.

December 02, 2025
Committee

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.

November 27, 2025
Unknown Committee

Rights of Way Committee - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 10.00 am

December 17, 2025
Unknown Committee

Communities and Place OSC - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 2.00 pm

December 17, 2025
Unknown Committee CANCELLED

Licensing and Regulatory Subcommittee - Thursday, 18th December, 2025 10.00 am

December 18, 2025
Unknown Committee CANCELLED

North Planning Committee - Thursday, 18th December, 2025 2.00 pm

December 18, 2025