Changes for north area planning service
Since local government reorganisation in 2009 the development management team which looks after planning applications for all of the north area of Northumberland, from Morpeth to Berwick, has been split over two sites at Alnwick and Berwick.
From the week beginning Monday September 26, the majority of the team will be located together in a main base at Allerburn House in Alnwick.
It will be possible to view planning files and meet planning staff at Alnwick’s Allerburn House to discuss applications at appointments which can be made between 10am and 3pm on weekdays by phoning 01665 511204 or emailing North.Planning@northumberland.gov.uk.
The council has also been making improvements to online information about planning applications and those with internet access can view applications and information from the comfort of their own homes.
Those who aren’t online at home can access information about applications and development services at Northumberland customer information centres – including Wallace Green at Berwick and Greenwell Lane in Alnwick.
Councillor Tom Brechany is executive member responsible for planning at Northumberland County Council. He said: “Operating one team from two bases has at times proved difficult. This move will mean that time, skills and capacity can be better managed, improving the overall performance of the team.
Karen Ledger, head of development services at the council added: “The team is committed to making this move work for customers of our services, and members of the public and developers will be able to meet with officers. An appointments system ensures that our officers have the opportunity to have all the information they need to hand.”
For further information about the planning service visit www.northumberland.gov.uk
