Plans lodged for striking new harbour front development in Northumberland

Plans have been submitted for a striking new development along the harbour front at Amble.
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Warkworth Harbour Commissioners have submitted a planning application for a new harbour office, RSPB facilities and four retail units on a site currently used for parking.

The commissioners are keen to bring forward development opportunities that will help to regenerate Amble and create employment opportunities.

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Planning consultant Jon Tweddell, in a report submitted alongside the application, states: ‘The applicant is keen to design buildings that are fitting of the 21st century rather than copying historic architectural styles. The proposal therefore includes contemporary themes. The buildings proposed would be similar in scale and height to existing buildings in the surrounding area.

An artist's impression of a proposed development for Warkworth Harbour Commissioners in Amble.An artist's impression of a proposed development for Warkworth Harbour Commissioners in Amble.
An artist's impression of a proposed development for Warkworth Harbour Commissioners in Amble.

‘The applicant has chosen to do something a little different in terms of the overall design. Rather than replicate the design features of traditional buildings, they have opted for modern design features to show a contrast between old and new. This method is quite common on listed buildings and other heritage assets where most feel it is important to show how building design has evolved over time.’

The report notes that Amble is Northumberland's most important fishing centre and has an important tourism role as a result of its location at the southern approach to the Northumberland Coast AONB and the establishment of a marina.

It also acknowledges its ‘significant resurgence’ in recent years with shop front improvements on Queen Street and the development of the Harbour Village, Coble Quay, Fourways 2 and a new hotel site on the Enterprise Park.

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The proposed development site is south of the River Coquet, west of Amble beach and east of the Fish Shack restaurant and Warkworth Harbour. The current harbour commissioners office is to the south of the site.

‘The development of the site would bring about a mixed-use development creating new employment opportunities,’ adds Mr Tweddell. “The development would also bring about ‘spin-off’ employment in respect of generating

opportunities for existing, local businesses involved with related industries.’

The applicant has also indicated that the current boundaries of the car park, which has capacity for around 30 vehicles, could be expanded to ensure there is no loss of parking.

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