The North Planning Committee is scheduled to consider two planning applications for new developments in Northumberland. The committee will also receive an update on Section 106 agreements.

Erection of 3 Cottages at Land South of Greensfield Farm, Alnwick

The committee is scheduled to consider a proposal for the erection of three cottages with associated access and garden areas at Land South of Greensfield Farm, Alnwick¹. The application, which has been called in by the Local Member, seeks permission for three-bedroom, 1.5-storey dwellings constructed from stone with slate roofing. The site is located within the main town of Alnwick, as defined by the Northumberland Local Plan, and is also within the Coastal Mitigation Zone.

The report pack indicates that the application is recommended for approval, subject to conditions and a unilateral undertaking to secure contributions towards the Coastal Mitigation Service and a Biodiversity Net Gain monitoring fee. The proposed development is considered to be in accordance with the Northumberland Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework, with officers concluding that the benefits of the proposal would not be substantially outweighed by any adverse effects.

Concerns raised by objectors, including Alnwick Town Council, relate to the site being outside the proposed settlement boundary in the Neighbourhood Plan Review, potential impact on the landscape, and highway safety. The report pack notes that while the Alnwick & Denwick Neighbourhood Plan Review is under examination, the Northumberland Local Plan's settlement boundary remains the most applicable. The proposed materials and design are considered to be in keeping with the local vernacular, and the scale of the development is deemed modest.

The report also details considerations regarding heritage impact, with the proposed dwellings to be sited near Greensfield Farm Cottages and other Grade II listed buildings. The design is intended to be subservient to the existing structures, and conditions are recommended to control external materials and landscaping. Ecological considerations include a requirement for Biodiversity Net Gain, with a monitoring fee to be secured. Drainage and sewerage arrangements are also detailed, with the site located within Flood Zone 1.

Change of Use at Chatton Trout Fishery

The committee is also scheduled to consider a change of use application at Chatton Trout Fishery for tourist visitor accommodation and a tipi for commercial events. The site is an existing commercial fishing business with touring caravan pitches. The proposed change of use would allow for mobile tourist accommodation and a temporary tipi for events such as weddings and parties.

The recommendation is to grant planning permission, subject to conditions and a legal agreement to secure habitat creation, enhancement, and management for 30 years, along with a Biodiversity Net Gain monitoring fee. The application is being brought before the committee due to objections from local residents and the Parish Council.

Concerns raised by objectors and Tillside Parish Council include potential noise from events and accommodation, impact on wildlife, road safety at the site access, and the proposal being out of character with the rural environment. The report pack indicates that while noise is a concern, it can be regulated by Public Protection under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and conditions will be recommended to limit late-night noise. The site's rural location is acknowledged, but the distance to the nearest residential properties is noted as a mitigating factor.

Ecological considerations are significant, with conditions recommended to ensure no adverse effect on the River Tweed Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the Till Catchment Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This includes requirements for chemical toilets for accommodation and mobile washrooms for events, with foul waste disposed of off-site. Biodiversity Net Gain is also a requirement, with a legal agreement to secure habitat creation and management.

Highways Development Management has raised no objection subject to conditions relating to access and cycle parking. The design and visual impact are considered acceptable, with the proposed elements being temporary and screened by the existing landscape.

S106 Report

The committee will also receive a monthly report on the agreement, monitoring, and collection of Section 106 contributions². This report details new Section 106 agreements and unilateral undertakings completed during July 2026, including contributions towards Biodiversity Net Gain monitoring fees, healthcare, and open space. It also provides information on payments made to local projects, such as Humshaugh Cricket Club and Amble Playzone.