Prudhoe, 23 June 2025 – A wave of local opposition is building against the proposed housing development at Highfield Lane, Prudhoe (Planning Ref: 25/01971/FUL), submitted by Barratt David Wilson Homes. Residents have formally launched a petition and are calling for a public meeting to ensure their voices are heard.
In a letter addressed to Rob Murfin, Director of Planning at Northumberland County Council, community representatives raised significant concerns over the proposal. A Northumberland County Council Cabinet Member has also met directly with local residents, underlining the seriousness and growing strength of public opposition.
The petition, which opened for signatures on 19 June 2025, outlines four key reasons for objection:
- Highway safety risks and increased traffic congestion
- Environmental and conservation impact on the local area
- Historic planning refusals for the same site
- Findings in Appendix A of the 2024 Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA), which categorised the site as not suitable, not available, not achievable, and consequently discounted for housing development
The petition is available both online and in paper format across the town. Residents are actively encouraged to sign and share the petition as momentum continues to build.
While many residents submitted comments during the pre-application stage, they are now urging the Planning Department to convene a public meeting to ensure local views are transparently aired and recorded as part of the decision-making process.
“This development has generated deep concern among residents,” said a community representative. “From traffic safety to environmental impact and the site’s own planning history, the message is clear – this proposal is not suitable for Prudhoe.”
The community calls on Northumberland County Council to respond to the strength of feeling by facilitating an open public meeting ahead of any planning determination
