THE next stage in the completion of Northumberland’s local plan is now underway.

Phase two public examination hearings of the plan, which will guide and determine future planning applications in the county, began on Tuesday.

The hearings, carried out by independent planning inspector Susan Heywood, will take place from Tuesday until November 19, covering subjects including environment, housing land supply, quality of place housing allocated sites, open space sites and connectivity and movement..

Councillor John Riddle, cabinet member responsible for planning at Northumberland County Council said: “We know that having a robust local plan in place is very important to Northumberland communities.

“I am pleased to see this next phase of hearings get underway.

“These hearings mark the next important stage in its completion.

“We will continue to work closely with the planning inspector to make sure that she has all of the information that she needs to examine the plan.”

The inspector, who was appointed by the secretary of state for housing, communities, and local government, will decide whether the plan is 'sound' and complies with the relevant legal requirements.

The hearings were due to take place earlier this year, but the coronavirus pandemic has, naturally, impacted on the timescale - as well as the way the meetings can take place.

As a result, the sessions will be held virtually and live-streamed on Northumberland County Council's YouTube channel.

Anyone with an interest in the plan can watch the hearings live, and those who have made a formal objection will have the right to speak.

Those taking part include representatives of parish councils, development professionals, residents, and other interested parties.

Phase 1 hearings took place btween July 13 and September 7 this year.

After the Phase 2 hearings are complete there will be a further period of public consultation on any modifications to the plan, prior to the Northumberland Local Plan being formally ‘adopted’.