Decision day is looming for bid to build housing

A controversial housing plan, which has prompted a string of objections, could be given the go-ahead next week, after being recommended for approval by planning officers.
The site of the proposed homes, which are earmarked for the rising strip of land.The site of the proposed homes, which are earmarked for the rising strip of land.
The site of the proposed homes, which are earmarked for the rising strip of land.

The bid, submitted by applicant Mrs Ireland, is for outline planning permission for the construction of six homes and detached garages on land adjacent to Gloster Hill, Amble.

The application, which also seeks to demolish redundant outbuildings on the site, has proved contentious, with 14 objections from neighbours.

The proposal is to build the properties at the bottom of the bank.The proposal is to build the properties at the bottom of the bank.
The proposal is to build the properties at the bottom of the bank.
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Warkworth Parish Council has also spoken out against the scheme, while Amble Town Council has raised concerns and described the plan as being overdevelopment.

Objections include loss of wetland and adverse effect on flora, fauna and wildlife; there are overflows from the sewers and the development would exacerbate flooding; excavations could cause a major slope collapse; adverse impact on highways safety; not within draft Core Strategy; and there are better sites in Amble.

But not everyone is against and the application has also mustered support from eight neighbours.

Those in favour say it a fare opportunity for a low-density development that would enhance the area; not a flood risk; not a risk to highway safety; not a slope-stability risk; and the site has not been registered for wildlife interests.

The proposal is to build the properties at the bottom of the bank.The proposal is to build the properties at the bottom of the bank.
The proposal is to build the properties at the bottom of the bank.
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And the application is recommended for approval when it goes in front of Northumberland County Council’s planning and performance committee on Tuesday.

Planning officers say that the plan ‘would make a contribution towards the economic, environment and social dimensions of sustainable development’ and the agent has indicated that the applicant would be willing to make an affordable housing contribution.