Local Plan Webinar Q&A

Contents

Most of the projected population growth will be in the 65 plus. Will this be reflected in the mix of homes?
How was the initial plan publicised? They were concerned that they didn't hear about this until January?
Define Green Space
If a member of the public would like to propose a different plan for an area local to them, how would they do this successfully?
Will there be any funding for artistic elements in the landscape
Will the Waggonways be retained?
Which Green Infrastructure will be prioritised in new developments, e.g. we have high allotment waiting lists, will new allotments be included in all new large housing developments?
Also, is it fair to say that the council is prioritising the needs of current non-residents, i.e. "future home owners", over the concerns and needs of current, council tax paying residents whom the council has a duty to represent?
When will the lovely fields and woods start being torn up?
What is the timescale for the Local Plan?
Will all new housing have air source heating and grey water circulation?
You said you would leave the Green Belt barrier when you built West Park a few years ago. You are now coming back for the rest of it. Will you eventually just take all of it?
What is the point in designating land as green belt land which you have just said is protected "permanently", when it can then just be built on in subsequent years?
Can the local plan demand a street layout which enhances direct connection to public transport and direct bike routes? So demand an end to cul-de-sac estates?
Cobalt Business Park and other areas of the borough have empty office buildings. Can this land be redesigned for housing?
So AI is more important than greenbelt???
Why don't you ask the land managers at Cobalt then?
Are there any areas on the boundaries of North Tyneside that could potentially be available to expand into.
Will sustainability issues be required of the developers- solar panels, insulation etc
How sustainable do the new developments have to be?
Will the plans be required to include social housing and affordable homes
The developers will build the biggest most expensive houses to gain the best profit.
Whose decision is it ultimately to sacrifice the designated green belt?
Is it possible to send your slide presentation to webinar participants?
There are dentists in Whitley Bay with 1000 people on the waiting list - how will this ever improve?
The old A1 runs through Wideopen this can not be expanded how will the traffic cope?
As with Ecclestone Park - which was passed despite a lot of opposition- the original plans were changed once they were through.
If the developers are in charge of infrastructure, this will come off their bottom line and offer no benefit to them financially.
Will Developers be stopped from revising their Planning Approval that frequently reduces the quality
Can you outline the role and purpose of 'safeguarded land' within the proposed Draft Local Plan?
As the Cobalt and other areas of the borough has empty office buildings can this land be re designated for housing
How will NTC ensure developers are made to match the requirements state in the Local Plan
You are putting the cart before the horse by building houses before ensuring our infrastructure is in place.
Site 4002 is an incredibly well used recreation field, which has been part of the Wellfield Estate since the 1920’s.
To what extent is the North Tyneside Local Plan likely to be impacted by the future regional Spatial Development Strategy?
The housing numbers for a space are estimated on private housing.
Why are you closing a school in Wideopen when the area is being expanded?
Earsdon is on a hill. Will the protected aspect be increased around the village accordingly
Are there any existing derelict / empty properties that can be brought back into use to add to the numbers of available housing?
Bearing in mind your plan says people will stay single longer - what proportion do you plan to be more appropriate, high density apartments?
On the interactive map there are highlighted areas that don't have project numbers on them.
There will be coalescence between Wellfield and Shiremoor yet your plan states no coalescence or urban sprawl?
What other sites were put forward before settling on our greenbelt?
Will the biodiversity created be in the immediate local area or be offset somewhere else?
How do we know that our genuine concerns relating to wildlife and ecological degradation will be taken seriously?
Is site 3092A in the North West a realistic proposal given all of its constraints?
How do you achieve a 10% BNG when you are removing 100% of countryside?
Site 4004 incorporates the flood relief scheme to prevent flooding of parts of Wellfield.
How are the roads going to cope with the traffic?
Will NTC ensure that developments are adopted by NTC, not leaving home owners paying Management Companies?
The plan and the presentation this evening has stressed the importance of retaining village life.
What proportion of the affordable housing will you stipulate as a minimum?
Are any improvements to the A19 junctions being factored into the Plan?
I'm a resident of Beaumont Park for over 20 years, I've never received ANY letter/notification.
This has been poorly advertised as a Local Plan.
40% of new-build homes are supposed to meet standards (Part M4(2)).
To further my last, the vast majority of responses to the survey also are very much against going over green belt land.
So the wildlife isn’t being taken into account
Is the target of 995 new homes per year set by the government a minimum requirement?
Will there actually be affordable homes or will it be a payment in lieu elsewhere in the region?
I missed the start of the call so this may have been covered.
If we need more homes for elderly people than anything else, surely we should insist development is only of smaller properties?
Will all residents who live directly next to proposed new housing developments be contacted via letter?
How have some people had letters and others not?
What impact is the government’s migrant dispersal scheme having on current and future availability of housing?
What ongoing work is going on to identify more brownfield / windfall sites?
How can North Tyneside sustain such population growth when we already have significant problems?
With ref to healthy places, the current consultation for revision of NPPF has excluded health.
Have there been any plans for infrastructure or will that be an afterthought?
Hi, I am creating an independent evaluation of housing vs green spaces in North Tyneside.
How do you plan to enhance wildlife and greenspaces by getting rid of greenspaces?
How many responded in the first consultation and how were people alerted to it?
If NTC Planning do not ensure the housing mix proposed by developers matches what the ONS identifies.
What proportion of existing greenbelt / greenfield land could be taken up?
Why are you planning to build on 4001 when part of this area is already prone to flooding?
I emailed the planning team two weeks ago and left two voicemails.
If I complete the paper consultation form, can I attach an additional sheet of comments?
You say about wildlife flooding and buses!
What happens if and when the majority oppose these plans?
If the birth rate is declining and the population is aging why are the house builders building large executive housing?
Who will determine what gets built where, you or the developers?
If there is a need to build more homes due to population increases.
The DRAFT Local Plan with the areas proposed encircles Earsdon.
How can you justify planning to build so many homes around the Whitley Bay area?
Does the council maintain a register a site suitable for co-housing and or self-build?

Question 1: Most of the projected population growth will be in the 65 plus. Will this be reflected in the mix of homes?

Answer: Population ageing will influence the housing mix, but in a balanced way. The Local Plan sets out overall housing needs, including requirements for specialist accommodation. While demand for specialist and adaptable homes for older residents will increase, many older people will also choose to remain in their existing homes. Housing delivery therefore reflects both assessed needs—such as affordable and specialist housing—and what the market provides based on buyer demand. Over time, the market is expected to respond to more older households looking to downsize, but overall supply will remain a mix shaped by policy requirements and market choices.

Question 2: How was the initial plan publicised? They were concerned that they didn't hear about this until January?

Answer: The previous consultation during August – October 2025 was publicised in much the same way as the current one. Notifications were issued through the Council’s Engagement Hub and to members of the North Tyneside Voice network. Each stage of the Local Plan process was also promoted in the Our North Tyneside magazine. Because that phase did not identify specific sites for growth, no direct letters were sent to individual households. Publicity also included a press release, at least two articles in The Chronicle, and information and materials available both online and in local libraries, supported by a programme of drop‑in events.

Question 3: Define Green Space

Answer: Green spaces are areas (including areas of water such as lakes) that offer important opportunities for sport and recreation and can also act as a visual amenity.

Question 4: If a member of the public would like to propose a different plan for an area local to them, how would they do this successfully?

Answer: Members of the public can suggest alternative proposals or different approaches for their local area as part of this consultation. This will help the Council consider reasonable alternatives before preparing the next version of the Local Plan.

When suggesting an alternative proposal, it is helpful if individuals explain the reasons for their suggestion and provide any supporting information. All representations will be reviewed alongside the technical evidence before any decisions are made on the next draft of the Local Plan.

Question 5: Will there be any funding for artistic elements in the landscape

Answer: The proposed Local Plan recognises the importance of achieving high standards of design and where appropriate this can include the integration of public art within new development. The commissioning and installation of art in the landscape would be considered as part of the planning process with a developer contribution potentially being sought as part of securing high‑quality, distinctive, and sustainable design.

Question 6: Will the Waggonways be retained?

Answer: The Local Plan requires development proposals to prioritise sustainable transport modes, with priority given to improvements to walking, wheeling and cycling routes. Proposed Policy DM13.2 sets out that ‘Development proposals will be supported where existing public rights of way, permissive paths and other paths and cycleways are retained, or a suitable alternative route can be agreed that is an enhancement of the existing infrastructure’.

Waggonways not only support sustainable forms of travel, but are also strategically important for their biodiversity value. The Local Nature Recovery Strategy highlights the importance of the waggonways to connect wildlife habitats and the Local Plan includes policies to maintain them, and if appropriate, improve them.

Question 7: Which Green Infrastructure will be prioritised in new developments, e.g. we have high allotment waiting lists, will new allotments be included in all new large housing developments?

Answer: Green Infrastructure is multifunctional, providing a range of benefits based on its broad definition of green spaces. The importance of green infrastructure is highlighted in the Local Plan and its importance to protect, enhance and extend, plus create new areas in appropriate locations across the Borough.

Allotments are an important part of the Borough’s Green Infrastructure network, and new provision can be sought through the planning process. Proposed Policy S12.1 specifically seeks to promote allotments for their health and well‑being benefits. The Council’s Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document sets out how developer contributions may be used to provide new allotments or improve existing sites. For example, the two strategic sites in the adopted Local Plan (2017) include contributions towards allotment provision at Killingworth Moor and at Murton within their masterplans. Similar requirements could be considered for future large developments.

Question 8: Is it fair to say that the council is prioritising the needs of current non‑residents, i.e. "future home owners", over the concerns and needs of current, council tax paying residents whom the council has a duty to represent?

Answer: The Council does not prioritise the needs of future residents over those of existing communities. Local planning authorities are required, under national planning legislation and policy, to plan positively for the needs of both current and future residents. If the authority does not provide land to meet its housing needs, developers will be in a position to argue that sites in the Green Belt should be classed as Grey Belt land and therefore released for development. This is part of the Government’s changes to the planning system to deliver 1.5 million homes.

By addressing housing needs proactively through the Local Plan, the authority can plan for supporting infrastructure such as highways, schools, health facilities and green infrastructure. This is preferable to responding to individual speculative planning applications which may come forward in the absence of an up‑to‑date plan.

As part of preparing the Local Plan, detailed technical work is being undertaken to assess the impacts of planned growth on the highway network. This evidence will inform what mitigation measures are required and how they should be delivered.

Question 9: When will the lovely fields and woods start being torn up?

Answer: The Local Plan is still at the consultation stage, and not due to be adopted until 2028. Before any allocated site could be developed, a planning application would need to be submitted, assessed and determined through the formal planning process. This includes detailed consideration of environmental impacts, access, design, biodiversity, trees and habitat protection in accordance with national and local planning policy. There is therefore no set timetable at this stage for when any land might be developed.

Question 10: What is the timescale for the Local Plan?

Answer: The current consultation runs until the end of February. After this, the Council will continue preparing the draft Local Plan, with a more detailed version expected to be published in autumn 2026. That draft will then be subject to a six‑week public consultation.

Following that stage, the plan—along with all comments received—will be submitted to the Government. An independent Planning Inspector will then be appointed to carry out the formal Examination, a process expected to take around one year.

On this basis, the Local Plan is anticipated to be adopted in early 2028. Once adopted, individual development sites would still require planning applications, which could come forward quickly or take several years depending on landowner and developer readiness. The overall delivery period for the plan extends to 2042.

Question 11: Will all new housing have air source heating and grey water circulation?

Answer: All homes will have to meet the ‘Future Homes Standard’ which is a government initiative to improve the energy efficiency of homes and reduce their carbon footprint. The ‘Future Homes Standard’ will expect low carbon heating systems such as air source heating to be incorporated into developments. There is no requirement for new housing to have grey water circulation installed, but the proposed Local Plan (draft Policy DM5.3) does require all development to demonstrate how they will adapt to the current and future impacts of climate change by incorporating measures to manage flood risk and address water shortages.

Question 12: You said you would leave the Green Belt barrier when you built West Park a few years ago. You are now coming back for the rest of it. Will you eventually just take all of it?

Answer: A review of North Tyneside’s Green Belt was conducted last year in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework and National Planning Practice Guidance. The purpose of the review is to consider the performance of each part of the existing Green Belt in relation to the defined roles outlined within the National Planning Policy Framework.

As North Tyneside is unable to identify sufficient land outside of the Green Belt to meet its development needs, the Green Belt review helps within the process of identifying Green Belt land that can be considered suitable to be released for development.

Question 13: What is the point in designating land as green belt land which you have just said is protected "permanently", when it can then just be built on in subsequent years?

Answer: National Planning Policy recognises that changes can be made to the Green Belt in exceptional circumstances, this includes where the Local Plan cannot meet its requirements without reviewing the Green Belt boundary.

Question 14: Can the local plan demand a street layout which enhances direct connection to public transport and direct bike routes? So demand an end to cul‑de‑sac estates?

Answer: Yes. The Local Plan can set expectations for permeable, well‑connected street layouts that support walking, cycling and access to public transport. The Council already uses principles in its cycling design guide and wider transport guidance, and further detailed design guidance and design codes are being developed for consultation later this year. These will strengthen requirements for layouts that enable direct, convenient movement through new developments. While current principles are well‑established, some recent schemes still lack good connectivity, so clearer policy and guidance will help ensure future layouts avoid such issues and better support sustainable travel.

Question 15: Cobalt Business Park and other areas of the borough have empty office buildings. Can this land be redesigned for housing?

Answer: While Cobalt currently has some vacant office buildings, the landowners or site managers have not indicated through the Call for Sites process that they intend to release land or buildings for housing. Converting offices to residential use also brings practical and technical challenges. In addition, some vacant buildings already have future occupiers lined up—for example, the police are expected to take over one of the blocks.

Cobalt is also part of a wider regional strategy linked to emerging AI growth zone investment, which could attract new data centre and technology‑related uses. Because of this strategic economic potential, the Council cannot simply reallocate the business park for housing at this stage.

Elsewhere, some significant locations include land at the River Tyne within the Port of Tyne’s ownership, which is actively being pursued for economic investment. Meanwhile, smaller unused buildings or offices may prove suitable locations for housing. Many of these are identified within the Local Plan and, where individual buildings may not be identified, Local Plan policy would support their development for housing. An allowance of around 1,600 homes, known as a “windfall allowance”, is included to take account of such delivery.

Question 16: So AI is more important than greenbelt???

Answer: National planning policy requires local authorities to identify sufficient land of the right type, in the right place, to meet future business and jobs needs. This includes providing a range of sites to support different types of employment, such as manufacturing, logistics and office development. Employment land is allocated in the Local Plan to support the local economy and Cobalt Business Park is an allocated employment site. It is also part of the North East AI Growth Zone and forms a strategically important location for future economic development. The AI Growth Zone designation reflects the area’s potential to support future jobs and does not mean that development will happen immediately. The Local Plan does propose potential residential development on some existing areas of employment land to reduce the pressure of releasing Green Belt land for development.

Question 17: Why don't you ask the land managers at Cobalt then?

Answer: The authority will continue to work with landowners and developers during the preparation of the Local Plan to bring forward sites to meet the growth required. Cobalt is designated employment land and the authority needs to have 139 hectares of employment land allocated in the plan. If it was not retained as employment land, the authority would have to consider allocating employment land elsewhere.

Question 18: Are there any areas on the boundaries of North Tyneside that could potentially be available to expand into.

Answer: No, North Tyneside cannot allocate homes outside its boundary. The law requires the Council to allocate housing only on land within the North Tyneside boundary.

Question 19: Will sustainability issues be required of the developers – solar panels, insulation etc

Answer: Yes. The draft Local Plan includes policies on energy efficiency and on‑site renewable energy, and national building regulations are also being strengthened. Many new homes in North Tyneside already include solar panels and higher insulation standards. Upcoming changes to national regulations will require new homes to meet “net zero ready” standards, meaning they will be highly efficient and able to reach net zero as the electricity grid decarbonises.

Alongside national requirements, the Local Plan will also set expectations on layout, orientation, sustainable construction, climate resilience, and measures such as tree planting and green landscaping. Together, these policies ensure new developments achieve strong sustainability and climate adaptation outcomes.

Question 20: How sustainable do the new developments have to be? Can the council require developers to build denser housing (e.g. no detached but terraced housing or attractive flats? This would reduce the need for land)

Answer: The draft Local Plan includes policies requiring higher densities in the most sustainable locations, particularly within around 800 metres of Metro stations, where developments are expected to deliver 40–50 dwellings per hectare. At these densities, layouts typically include townhouses, terraces, or small apartment buildings rather than detached homes.

Higher density development helps make efficient use of land and supports public transport, while also creating opportunities for better designed green spaces. However, the housing mix still needs to reflect local market demand, as flats and very high density forms are less popular in North Tyneside than in city centre locations. The Plan therefore seeks a balance: higher density where it is sustainable and appropriate, while ensuring homes remain deliverable and meet local needs.

Question 21: Will the plans be required to include social housing and affordable homes

Answer: Yes, the Draft Local Plan asks for 25% affordable housing on all major new developments.

Question 22: The developers will build the biggest most expensive houses to gain the best profit. You have just admitted the developers will determine the type of houses that will get built! Your Local Plan says North Tyneside is the second most unaffordable area in the North East. It feels like your decisions are market driven rather than meeting the needs of future residents.

Answer: National planning policy requires local authorities to identify and plan for a mix of homes that meets the needs of different groups in the community, including families, first‑time buyers, older people, and those who require affordable housing. The housing mix on each site must therefore be supported by evidence, including the Council’s Strategic Housing Market Assessment, and must comply with Local Plan policies on size, type and affordability. Decisions are therefore based on identified local need and planning policy, rather than on market preferences alone.

Question 23: Whose decision is it ultimately to sacrifice the designated green belt?

Answer: The local authority can propose changes, but ultimately an independent Government appointed Planning Inspector would determine if alteration to Green Belt boundaries within the Local Plan are acceptable.

Question 24: Is it possible to send your slide presentation to webinar participants?

Answer: A recording of the webinar has been made available on the Council’s Have Your Say website, and a copy of the presentation is also available online and has been distributed to participants.

Question 25: There are dentists in Whitley Bay with 1000 people on the waiting list – how will this ever improve?

Answer: The Local Plan doesn’t allocate individual dental practices, but it does consider the impact of new development on local health infrastructure. When new housing creates additional demand for services such as GP or dental provision, the authority works with the NHS and other health partners to identify the level of need.

Where necessary, financial contributions can be secured from developers to help expand or improve community infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, although decisions about commissioning new dental services or expanding existing provision are made by the NHS, not the Council.

Question 26: The old A1 runs through Wideopen this can not be expanded how will the traffic cope?

Answer: A strategic transport and traffic model will be prepared to assess the cumulative impacts of all proposed development. For each site, the first priority will be to reduce car trips through good design—such as providing local services, creating walkable layouts, and supporting public transport. The model will then quantify expected traffic levels at peak times and assess whether the local road network can safely accommodate them. Where capacity issues are identified, suitable mitigation or highway improvements will be required before planning permission is granted. If a site cannot be made safe or workable in transport terms, it would not be able to proceed.

Question 27: As with Ecclestone Park – which was passed despite a lot of opposition – the original plans were changed once they were through. This means there was no consultation. The opportunity for this to happen over such a large scale plan are huge. What will be in place to ensure there is ongoing consultation?

Answer: Since the Ecclestone Park development was originally granted planning permission at appeal, a number of discharge of condition applications have been submitted and publicly consulted on.

There will be further opportunities to engage with the Local Plan as it is prepared prior to submission to the Planning Inspectorate for independent examination. If you register on the authority’s website (Our North Tyneside Voice), you will be notified of all future stages of public consultation of the Local Plan.

Planning applications are also subject to public consultation and details of planning applications can be accessed on the local authority website, where it is also possible to sign up to be informed of planning applications that are of interest and to submit comments.

Question 28: If the developers are in charge of infrastructure, this will come off their bottom line and offer no benefit to them financially, so will be the cheapest option. Will we end up with more crumbling roads?

Answer: Developers can be required to contribute towards necessary infrastructure provision to ensure that new development is supported by appropriate services and facilities. Any highway works undertaken by developers and intended to be adopted by the local authority must be designed to the Council’s adopted standards and approved by the Local Highway Authority. This means that the Council retains full control over the specification, quality, and safety standards of any works carried out.

Question 29: Will Developers be stopped from revising their Planning Approval that frequently reduces the quality

Answer: Developers are able to submit applications to amend an approved scheme, but any proposed changes must be assessed by the authority through a formal planning process. Amendments can only be approved if they remain acceptable in planning terms when considered against the relevant policies and guidance.

The proposed Local Plan includes policies to deliver high quality, well-designed places, reinforcing design quality principles and neighbourhood character.

Question 30: Can you outline the role and purpose of ‘safeguarded land’ within the proposed Draft Local Plan?

Answer: Safeguarded land is land kept open during the current plan period but not designated as permanent Green Belt. Green Belt boundaries are intended to be long-term and only changed through a formal review. Safeguarded land, by contrast, sits outside the Green Belt but is protected from development until a future Local Plan review considers whether it may be suitable for development.

In the draft plan, safeguarded areas are mainly those where there is no clear permanent physical boundary—such as a road, rail line or strong landscape feature—to define the Green Belt edge. Where a strong boundary exists, such as the Briar Dene corridor, that is used as the firm Green Belt limit, and land beyond it is safeguarded rather than fully released or tightly protected. Safeguarded land therefore helps manage long-term growth while maintaining defensible and durable Green Belt boundaries.

Question 31: As the Cobalt and other areas of the borough has empty office buildings can this land be re-designated for housing

Answer: Note response to Question 15.

Question 32: How will NTC ensure developers are made to match the requirements stated in the Local Plan and not do what they frequently do and say it makes the development affordable?

Answer: When planning applications are approved, developers are legally required to comply with the planning conditions and planning obligations (such as contributions towards infrastructure costs, affordable housing requirements, and on-site works) attached to that permission.

The Local Plan sets out the policy requirements that developments are expected to meet. If a developer believes they cannot deliver a scheme that fully accords with these policies while remaining financially viable, they must submit a viability assessment to justify any proposed reduction in standards or contributions.

The Council will only consider a reduced requirement where the evidence clearly demonstrates that it is justified in line with national guidance. If the justification is not robust or does not comply with planning policy, the Council can require full policy compliance or refuse the application.

This process ensures that developers cannot simply state that policy requirements make a development “unaffordable”—they must evidence this fully, and the Council retains control over whether such changes are acceptable.

Question 33: You are putting the cart before the horse by building houses before ensuring our infrastructure is in place. Does that mean you will take even more greenbelt to build doctors’ surgeries etc?

Answer: No, the plan does not propose taking more of the Green Belt for infrastructure. It requires infrastructure to be delivered alongside homes. Infrastructure delivery will be included within the site or secured through financial agreements to improve existing infrastructure.

Question 34: Site 4002 is an incredibly well-used recreation field, which has been part of the Wellfield Estate since the 1920’s. It is important to the health and wellbeing of the residents of Wellfield, and is only accessed by local residential streets. How on earth can NTC consider building houses on that site will not have a major detrimental impact on the people of Wellfield?

Answer: As part of the Local Plan process, the Council must assess a wide range of factors before any land can be allocated for development. This includes listening to the views of local residents and assessing a range of appropriate evidence for each site. The work of the Local Plan and evidence gathering is ongoing and the feedback submitted by residents will be taken into account before the next version of the Local Plan is prepared.

Question 35: To what extent is the North Tyneside Local Plan likely to be impacted by the future regional Spatial Development Strategy, particularly in terms of key development sites?

Answer: Work on the Regional Spatial Development Strategy is only just beginning, and the regional team is still being established. Its detailed approach is therefore not yet known. However, the SDS will still need to be consistent with national planning policy and will have to distribute growth across each authority in the region in line with established requirements—essentially the same needs the Local Plan is already addressing.

As the SDS develops, it will provide a strategic framework for the region and may help support major infrastructure required for North Tyneside’s growth. At this stage, there is no expectation that the SDS will conflict with or fundamentally alter the scale or location of development proposed in the draft Local Plan. Some iteration between the two plans will be necessary, and North Tyneside Council will be working closely with NECA to ensure both plans align appropriately.

Question 36: The housing numbers for a space are estimated on private housing. Single buildings in a cul-de-sac or estate. This will not assist affordable housing and will increase the amount of land used. Have you considered more council flats?

Answer: Policy S19.1 in the Initial Draft Local Plan pushes for higher densities than the existing Local Plan, and Policy DM2.6 ‘Housing Range and Types’ requires a range of house types and sizes. In short, the Initial Draft Local Plan requires higher densities, more mixed housing and affordable housing, which reduces land take and helps protect green space.

Question 37: Why are you closing a school in Wideopen when the area is being expanded?

Answer: School closures and Local Plan growth are separate processes. The current decision reflects immediate issues with school viability, including falling pupil numbers and the cost of maintaining schools that are no longer sustainable.

Even with future housing growth, population projections still show fewer children overall across North Tyneside over the next 20 years. New homes may change where children live, but they do not increase the total number enough to address the current shortfall.

If new development creates a future need for school places, the Local Plan allows for developer contributions to help fund education provision and safeguarded land for a new school where required. Any new school would only be delivered if monitoring shows a clear need and if it would not undermine the viability of existing schools.

Question 38: Earsdon is on a hill. Will the protected aspect be increased around the village accordingly

Answer: Policy S19.9 and S19.10 of the Initial Draft Local Plan include criteria to safeguard the heritage significance and setting of Earsdon Village Conservation Area, including protecting key views toward and from the village and avoiding development that dominates or erodes the historic village setting.

Question 39: Are there any existing derelict / empty properties that can be brought back into use to add to the numbers of available housing?

Answer: Yes—some derelict or vacant sites have already been identified for redevelopment, such as the former Tyne Brand site at the Fish Quay and areas like Dock Road near Smith’s Dock, where there is a mix of industrial and unused buildings. These sites are included within the draft plan as opportunities for regeneration.

However, the overall number of such sites in North Tyneside is limited. Any additional derelict or vacant properties identified later can still contribute to housing supply, either by being added through future updates or by coming forward as windfall sites. The plan includes an allowance of around 1,600 windfall homes, reflecting the expected contribution from brownfield redevelopment over the plan period.

Question 40: Bearing in mind your plan says people will stay single longer – what proportion do you plan to be more appropriate, high density, 3 or 4 storey apartments as opposed to 5 bed detached houses?

Answer: Policy S19.1 in the Initial Draft Local Plan requires densities to be 50 dwellings per hectare where a site is within 800 metres of an existing or potential train or Metro station and 35–50 dwellings per hectare in other locations. Policy DM2.6 ‘Housing Range and Type’ requires developments to provide a range of types and sizes. The policies do not set a fixed proportion, but the density and housing mix policies aim to provide higher density and smaller homes.

Question 41: On the interactive map there are highlighted areas that don't have project numbers on them. Are they also being considered for housing?

Answer: The interactive map shows all possible allocations for housing and employment sites, as well as existing allocations that were adopted as part of the current Local Plan in 2017. Where areas on the map do not have a reference number, these show other policy designations such as areas of open space and safeguarded land. The allocations and policy designations on the interactive map can be seen more easily by toggling the map layers on and off using the map tools located at the bottom of the screen.

Question 42: There will be coalescence between Wellfield and Shiremoor yet your plan states no coalescence or urban sprawl?

Answer: Discussion of coalescence and urban sprawl in the Local Plan relates to the Green Belt’s role in preventing the merging of neighbouring towns with the built-up area of Tyneside and the spread of development into the countryside. Wellfield and Shiremoor are a contiguous part of the existing urban built-up area of North Tyneside.

This land is recognised as a valuable green break and the Local Plan highlights the importance of retaining a green corridor in this area. However, the land does not perform a significant Green Belt role in preventing the merging of North Tyneside with Seaton Delaval and Cramlington. The area is also contained by existing development and the A186 transport corridor, limiting the risk of further urban sprawl beyond.

Question 43: What other sites were put forward before settling on our greenbelt?

Answer: When preparing the Local Plan, the authority must consider sites to accommodate the level of growth required. Sites must be available, suitable and able to deliver the homes needed over the Plan period. In 2025, alongside the previous consultation, the authority ran a call for sites exercise inviting residents, developers and landowners to submit sites for consideration. This produced a long list of potential sites which have been reviewed.

The priority has been to identify potential sites within the existing urban area, where around 11,000 homes are expected to be delivered. Examples include Smith’s Dock, Tyneview Park in Benton, the Tyne Brand site near the Fish Quay and the former Queen Alexandra College site.

Following this process, the authority remains short of identifying sites to accommodate the additional homes required to meet Government housing targets, which has triggered the need to review Green Belt land.

Question 44: Will the biodiversity created be in the immediate local area or be offset somewhere else?

Answer: Developers must follow a strict biodiversity hierarchy. The priority is to deliver biodiversity net gain on the development site itself wherever possible. If full delivery cannot be achieved on-site, the next step is to provide it immediately adjacent to the site. Only where these options are not feasible can biodiversity be offset further away, and this becomes progressively more expensive.

Most sites in the draft plan are expected to achieve biodiversity improvements on-site or nearby, although higher density urban sites may require some off-site offsetting. Final arrangements will be developed through detailed concept plans and site-specific proposals.

Question 45: How do we know that our genuine concerns relating to wildlife and ecological degradation will be taken seriously in the face of proposed building work on greenbelt land?

Answer: Ecological assessments will be prepared as part of the evidence base for potential sites in the Local Plan. In addition, all development must legally deliver Biodiversity Net Gain, meaning that sites must end up with more biodiversity value after development than before. This is a statutory requirement, and the Council must be satisfied that ecological issues have been properly addressed when deciding whether sites should remain in the Local Plan.

Question 46: Is site 3092A in the North West a realistic proposal given all of its constraints?

Answer: It is up to the landowner to demonstrate how issues such as access and Biodiversity Net Gain can be achieved. If these requirements cannot be met, the site will be removed from the Local Plan.

Question 47: How do you achieve a 10% BNG when you are removing 100% of countryside?

Answer: An ecologist must assess a site using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric, which evaluates habitat type, size, condition, distinctiveness and location to calculate biodiversity units. Developers must then demonstrate how the required biodiversity units will be delivered to achieve at least a 10% net gain.

Biodiversity Net Gain should be delivered on-site wherever possible through habitat creation and enhancement. Where this is not feasible, off-site biodiversity units may be secured and managed for at least 30 years. Statutory biodiversity credits from Government are only intended as a last resort.

Question 48: Site 4004 incorporates the flood relief scheme to prevent flooding of parts of Wellfield, so how on earth can it be suitable for building on?

Answer: Flood risk is a key consideration when assessing any potential site. The authority works with the Environment Agency, Northumbrian Water Ltd and the Lead Local Flood Authority to understand flood risk and infrastructure. A site can only be taken forward if evidence shows that development could be designed to maintain or enhance existing flood protection.

The Initial Draft Local Plan includes policies on flooding and water management, including requirements for development to contribute to mitigating drainage impacts and to work with relevant partners to ensure flood risk is not increased.

Question 49: How are the roads going to cope with the traffic??

Answer: The authority works with the Local Highway Authority and National Highways to assess the cumulative traffic impacts of proposed development. Each planning application must be supported by a Transport Assessment or Statement demonstrating how impacts will be managed.

Any required mitigation—such as junction improvements, walking and cycling links or public transport enhancements—must be identified and secured before development can proceed.

Question 50: Will NTC ensure that developments are adopted by NTC, not leaving home owners having to pay Management Companies to maintain their green spaces in addition to Council Tax?

Answer: The long-term management of green spaces on new developments depends on the arrangements put forward by the developer and agreed through the planning process. The authority does not routinely adopt new green spaces, and developers usually put in place private management companies to maintain shared areas on behalf of residents.

Question 51: The plan and the presentation this evening has stressed the importance of retaining village life. In areas such as Backworth, it will no longer be a village. The road infrastructure is very over‑used even at this present time. The wildlife has been disrupted already. Already have the new Eccleston development. How will the important aspect of village life be upheld? It seems a dichotomy?

Answer:
As part of the Initial Draft Local Plan, each potential development site is assessed for its impact on the surrounding area. Where sites around villages are proposed, the Plan highlights the importance of sensitively integrating a site with the existing area. A highlighted section of proposed Policy AS19.2 (Backworth area) requires a landscape‑led masterplan and design code to guide development, reinforcing settlement edges, retaining key landscape features and delivering a connected green infrastructure network.

Borough‑wide transport modelling is being undertaken to understand cumulative impacts and identify necessary mitigation such as junction upgrades, walking and cycling links and public transport enhancements.

All proposals must also meet national requirements for wildlife protection, including biodiversity net gain and long‑term habitat management. The intention of the Local Plan is not to erode the identity of places like Backworth, but to ensure that any growth is supported by infrastructure, green space and strong design principles that strengthen the existing community.

Question 52: What proportion of the affordable housing will you stipulate as a minimum?

Answer:
Policy DM2.5 of the Initial Draft Local Plan requires up to 25% affordable housing (subject to the conclusions of a Local Plan Viability Assessment) on housing developments of 10 or more dwellings.

Question 53: Are any improvements to the A19 junctions being factored into the Plan?

Answer:
The Council works with the Local Highway Authority and National Highways to assess cumulative traffic impacts. Development can only be allocated where transport evidence demonstrates the strategic road network, including the A19, can operate safely and efficiently with appropriate mitigation.

Question 54: I'm a resident of Beaumont Park for over 20 years, I've never received ANY letter/notification advising of the construction of the houses. How do we residents raise our objections to the development?

Answer:
Information is available on the Our North Tyneside Voice website. Responses can be submitted online, by email to planning.policy@northyneside.gov.uk, or via paper questionnaires available from Community Hubs and libraries or by calling 0191 643 2310.

Question 55: This has been poorly advertised as a Local Plan. You have hidden the proposed developments within it. How will you improve your engagement with residents as this develops?

Answer:
The authority will review the consultation undertaken and consider how engagement can be improved to ensure residents are aware and able to comment.

Question 56: 40% of new‑build homes are supposed to meet standards (Part M4(2)). Will this be enforced?

Answer:
Draft Policy DM2.8 requires, subject to viability, 50% of market homes and 90% of affordable homes to meet M4(2) standards, enforced through planning and building regulations.

Question 57: The majority of survey responses oppose development on Green Belt land. There are sites with strong opposition, such as Annitsford Field. Will the Council still push housing through?

Answer:
The authority welcomes comments and alternative proposals, which will be considered as part of the Local Plan process.

Question 58: So the wildlife isn’t being taken into account?

Answer:
Wildlife protection is a key part of the Local Plan. Ecological constraints and designated sites have been considered, and all major development must deliver mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain, providing measurable improvements over existing conditions.

Question 59: Is the target of 995 homes per year a minimum requirement?

Answer:
Yes. 995 homes per year is a Government‑set minimum. A small buffer is applied to ensure a robust supply, resulting in an overall requirement of around 18,447 dwellings to 2042.

Question 60: Will there actually be affordable homes or just a payment in lieu elsewhere?

Answer:
Affordable homes are delivered within the Borough through registered providers. Policy DM2.5 requires up to 25% affordable housing on qualifying developments, with details set out in the Initial Draft Local Plan.

Question 61: I missed the start of the call. How do residents object to Green Belt development?

Answer:
All information and submission routes are available via Our North Tyneside Voice.

Question 62: Should development focus only on smaller homes for older people at higher density?

Answer:
The Local Plan must meet the needs of all households, not only older people. Policies already require higher densities in sustainable locations, but restricting all development to small units would fail national policy tests.

Question 63: Will residents living next to proposed sites be contacted by letter?

Answer:
Direct notifications were sent to properties closest to proposed sites. The Council will review its approach for future consultation stages.

Question 64: Why have some people received letters and others not?

Answer:
Letters were sent to properties identified as being most directly affected by potential sites.

Question 65: What impact is the migrant dispersal scheme having on housing availability?

Answer:
The Local Plan housing strategy is not adjusted because of asylum dispersal.

Question 66: What work is being done to identify more brownfield or windfall sites?

Answer:
The Council continuously reviews potential sites, updates its Housing Land Availability evidence at least annually, and welcomes recommendations from the public.

Question 67: How can North Tyneside sustain population growth with existing congestion and NHS pressures?

Answer:
Transport impacts will be mitigated through infrastructure delivery. Health pressures are largely national issues, but the Local Plan helps services plan and secure funding for growth.

Question 68: If national planning rules change, what happens to “healthy places” policies?

Answer:
Reforms to the NPPF retain a focus on healthy communities, and Local Plans may still set stronger local policies where justified by evidence.

Question 69: Is infrastructure an afterthought?

Answer:
No. Infrastructure requirements are identified alongside site selection, with larger sites expected to deliver local centres and space for health services where needed.

Question 70: How can more homes be built without first expanding infrastructure?

Answer:
Policy S17.1 requires infrastructure to be delivered alongside development, and housing cannot proceed without necessary transport, health, education and drainage improvements.

Question 71: How do you

enhance wildlife by removing green space?

Answer:
Sites are assessed to avoid sensitive habitats, and all development must deliver at least 10% Biodiversity Net Gain, secured for 30 years.

Question 72: How many responded to the first consultation and how was it advertised?

Answer:
Just over 100 responses were received. The consultation was promoted online, via social media, the Council magazine, and in Community Hubs and libraries.

Question 73: If developers ignore housing mix evidence, won’t this affect school planning?

Answer:
Policy DM2.6 requires housing mix to reflect up‑to‑date evidence. Population projections show growth mainly in over‑65s, while school viability issues remain short‑term challenges.

Question 74: What proportion of Green Belt / greenfield land could be taken?

Answer:
Current proposals include around 398 hectares of Green Belt, though final developable areas are smaller once green infrastructure and open space are accounted for.

Question 75: Why build on Site 4001 when it floods?

Answer:
Flood risk is assessed with the Environment Agency and Lead Local Flood Authority. Development can only proceed where flood protection can be maintained or improved.

Question 76: I contacted the planning team and had no reply. How long should it take?

Answer:
Apologies for delays. Comments are recorded and officers have been in contact.

Question 77: Can I attach extra sheets to a paper consultation form?

Answer:
Yes.

Question 78: Concerns about flooding, wildlife, buses and schools near Seaton Burn

Answer:
Flood risk, wildlife, transport and education impacts are all assessed through evidence. Development cannot proceed unless issues can be addressed and necessary infrastructure delivered.

Question 79: What happens if the majority oppose the plans?

Answer:
A Local Plan is not decided by referendum. All objections are considered, but the Plan must meet national requirements to manage growth sustainably.

Question 80: Why are large executive homes being built if the population is ageing?

Answer:
Policy DM2.6 requires a mix of dwelling types and sizes based on evidence, not developer preference alone.

Question 81: Who decides what gets built – the Council or developers?

Answer:
An up‑to‑date Local Plan guides decisions. Without it, the Council’s control is significantly reduced.

Question 82: Why were larger homes approved in Killingworth instead of smaller affordable homes?

Answer:
The application was approved at Planning Committee as providing an acceptable mix overall, as set out in the officer report.

Question 83: Will development around Earsdon damage its identity?

Answer:
No sites would directly merge with Earsdon. Detailed design and landscaping will protect its setting and conservation value.

Question 84: Why build around Whitley Bay while closing schools?

Answer:
ONS projections show declining under‑15 population. School closures address short‑term viability, while housing plans address long‑term needs.

Question 85: Does the Council keep a register for self‑build or co‑housing?

Answer:
Yes. The Council maintains a statutory Self‑Build and Custom‑Build Register. Opportunities may be delivered through larger sites or smaller standalone plots.