Residents also say the type of housing proposed is not suitable to an area with an ageing population and in need of smaller, cheaper homes
Plans which could see 12 new homes built are not ‘in keeping with the character’ of a Tynedale village, residents say.
The Ian Dickinson Trust has submitted a planning application to Northumberland County Council for houses on greenfield land south east of The Manor House, Riding Mill.
Concerns have been raised by residents over the ‘dense’ design, impact on the surrounding area, including impact to listed buildings, access and road safety, and drainage and land slippage. They also say the type of housing proposed is not suitable to an area with an ageing population and in need of smaller, cheaper homes amid fears of overdevelopment.
Broomhaugh and Riding Mill Parish Council has objected to the scheme.
The Manor House application was a particularly problematic one because we first heard of it when they went for public consultation, said Christine Howe, chair of Broomhaugh and Riding Mill Parish Council. This was disappointing because we had a lot to offer them because we’ve just done a big survey of the village and we are starting to plan a neighbourhood plan.
Manor House was particularly problematic because of the access, which we would have to agree with the local residents, is very poor, the drainage is also of some concern, as is the fact there’s a big conservation wall and a very narrow main road. The scheme itself didn’t, to us, pose too much of a problem, Howe said.
A spokesperson for the developer added: We understand people’s concerns which is why we have worked hard to create a proposal for a high quality residential design in a sustainable location. It’s a significant boost for quality, local housing provision and will, undoubtedly, contribute positively to an important part of Riding Mill.
Northumberland County Councillor Anne Dale, the representative for Riding Mill, said the “difficult” planning application, which has raised very important issues, will come to a planning committee.
