The Tynedale Local Area Planning Committee of Northumberland County Council met on Tuesday, 11 June 2024, to discuss several planning applications and related matters. Key decisions included the approval of a residential development in Melkridge and the granting of permission for a new holiday accommodation in Humshaugh.

23/02793/FUL - Residential Development in Melkridge

The committee approved the full planning permission for eight residential dwellings on land south of Ashlea, Melkridge, Northumberland. The Senior Planning Officer introduced the application, noting that The Coal Authority had withdrawn its objection subject to conditions related to remedial stabilisation works and ground investigations. Michael Hepburn, representing the applicant, the Tyneside Group, highlighted the collaborative efforts with council officers to refine the development, resulting in a high-quality, sustainable housing project. He addressed concerns from local residents about surface water flows, access, heritage, and design, and confirmed that the proposed development would significantly improve upon the previous scheme.

The committee discussed various aspects of the development, including the housing mix, design, and access. It was noted that the site already had an extant outline permission, which influenced the decision not to request additional financial contributions. Councillor Horncastle proposed the officer's recommendation to grant permission, which was seconded by Councillor Kennedy. The motion was carried with 10 votes in favour and 2 against.

Read the full details of the application.

23/04596/FUL - Holiday Accommodation in Humshaugh

The committee granted planning permission for the demolition of an existing cattle building and its replacement with new self-catering/bed and breakfast wheelchair-accessible holiday accommodation at Leazes Head, Humshaugh. Robin Wood, the agent for the applicant, argued that the proposal met the criteria set out in Policy ECN15, being located near established tourist routes such as the Hadrian’s Wall walking and cycling routes. He provided evidence of demand for such accommodation and highlighted its flexible, accessible design.

The committee debated the interpretation of Policy ECN15, with some members disagreeing with the officers' assessment of the site's proximity to tourist routes. Councillor Kennedy proposed granting permission, seconded by Councillor Oliver. The motion was unanimously agreed, with members emphasising the need to support rural tourism and farm diversification.

Read the full details of the application.

Tree Preservation Order at 15 Hextol Terrace, Hexham

The committee confirmed the Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for land at 15 Hextol Terrace, Hexham. The Planning Technician explained that the TPO would protect the tree, assessed as being in good health, and allow for necessary management works such as pollarding. Councillor Hutchinson moved the recommendation, seconded by Councillor Cessford, and the motion was unanimously agreed.

Planning Appeals Update

The committee received an update on the progress of planning appeals. The information was noted without further discussion.

Read the full appeals update.

The next meeting of the Tynedale Local Area Planning Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, 9 April 2024.