Prestwick Park included in Northumberland’s HELAA
Northumberland County Council has published its latest Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (HELAA), which includes land at Prestwick Park that we submitted for consideration through the Council’s Call for Sites process.
A HELAA is an important part of preparing a new Local Plan. It allows the Council to consider land that has been put forward and assess its potential to help meet future needs in south east Northumberland. Inclusion in the HELAA is part of that assessment process but does not mean that a site has been allocated for development. Sites submitted through the Call for Sites are assessed alongside other options, with the Council ultimately deciding which should progress through the emerging Local Plan.
Our submission considers the potential for housing alongside employment opportunities, community services and facilities, green space and environmental improvements as part of a longer-term vision for Prestwick Park. At this stage, these are opportunities being put forward for consideration rather than detailed development proposals.
We believe Prestwick Park is well placed to contribute positively to Northumberland’s future growth. The existing business park has supported a thriving business community for more than 20 years, and its location between Ponteland and Newcastle provides close connections to Newcastle International Airport, the Metro and the A696, and is close to, but distinct from, the edge of Ponteland.
By putting the land forward now, we are giving the Council the opportunity to consider how Prestwick Park could help meet future needs in a joined-up way, building on the success of the existing business park while exploring opportunities for new homes, jobs and community facilities alongside green infrastructure and environmental improvements.
There is a long way to go through the Local Plan process and we will continue to engage constructively with the Council and local stakeholders as it progresses.
For further information please contact:
Nicky Witchell
Associate Director, Rural Solutions