A PLANNING application that will see wholesale changes to one of the Tyne Valley's most popular visitor attractions has been approved by councillors.

It means a redevelopment of Brocksbushes, near Corbridge, will now go ahead.

The proposals will see the demolition of existing buildings and the creation of new buildings to accommodate farm shop, tea shop, play barn and production kitchen uses, new car park and associated new planting.

The application was unanimously approved on Tuesday, June 2 at Northumberland County Council's first ever virtual planning meeting.

In a statement read out by council officers, applicant Harry Dickinson said: "As a business we are constrained by our current timber buildings which have developed over time but have now reached their maximum capacity and are sadly not fit for any form of growth.

"Our proposal is for a once in a generation investment in creating a new and exciting destination for our county.

""We believe that our proposals will provide a new and exciting platform for local and regional suppliers, provide an improved destination where locals and visitors to the area can meet, as well as supporting economic recovery through construction, and job creation."

The proposals will also see 20 new jobs created.

Councillors reacted positively to the proposals.

Coun. Richard Dodd said: "It's been there for a very long time. I've watched it grow up.

"It needs updating, it's dated and it's one of the jewels of the Tyne Valley. If we can't have a farm shop in the green belt, where can we?"

Coun. Rupert Gibson added: "It's a hell of an opportunity for them. It's great for business."