Plans for new homes near Highfield Lane in Prudhoe are stirring up local worries about traffic and safety, especially with nearby schools.
Some of these homes will be available for affordable rent, while others can be bought at a lower price. The developers also promise to include accessible homes and a new access point from Highfield Lane, while keeping an existing right of way, though it will be modified.
Local councillor Angie Scott supports more housing but is worried about traffic, especially since Highfield Lane is already busy with two schools nearby. She mentioned that the recent proposal for 75 homes could worsen the traffic situation, which is already a hassle during school hours.
Another councillor, Tracey Gilmore, echoed these concerns, stating that the road can’t handle more cars, especially with parked vehicles narrowing it down during school times. She plans to ask the developers some tough questions.
In response, Barratt Homes reassured the community that they are taking safety seriously. They’ve worked with the council to assess traffic and have a plan to manage it, including a new junction for the development.
This proposal comes as Northumberland faces a significant increase in housing targets, with plans to build 1,649 homes annually. The developers believe there’s a strong demand for quality housing in Prudhoe and are keen to collaborate with locals and the council to make it happen.
However, some residents are taken aback by the sudden push for development, especially with the county’s housing targets rising so dramatically. The local council’s data shows a high number of people on the housing register, indicating a pressing need for new homes, but many are still concerned about the impact on their community.
