PLANS to demolish the former fire station at Haydon Bridge to make way for new homes have been unanimously approved by county councillors.

The station was closed by the council in October 2016 as part of cuts to save £500,000 from the fire and rescue budget, and the site was put up for sale.

It was sold to North East-based housing developer Bradley Homes in July last year, who submitted an application to build five new houses on the site, which was debated by councillors at the Tynedale Local Area Council meeting on Tuesday.

Speaking at the meeting, Sean Hedley, managing director of the application’s agents, Hedley Planning Services, said: “The planning application was originally objected to in August 2017 and in that time the applicant has worked hard to ensure the design works for all.

“Having worked with conservation officers we have resolved all objections from a conservation point of view, we are confident that it is fully compliant in all aspects.”

Some concerns surrounding flooding and parking were raised.

Councillor for Haydon and Hadrian Alan Sharp said: “The biggest concern I can see is flooding, this area was flooded in 2015. Residents have also raised concerns about car parking.”

Councillor James Hutchinson added: “I agree about flooding. It is a flooding risk by the nature of the thing. Something needs to be done if this is approved.”

Northumbrian Water have made recommendations to the application regarding flooding, as have the local flood authority.

In addition, a representative from Highways England explained that there was space for 14 cars, which meets regulations.

Councillor Hutchinson proposed to approve the plans, whilst adding some recommendations to the proposals. He was seconded by councillor Karen Quinn.

Councillor Hutchinson continued: “It would tidy the place up. There’s no reason at all to refuse it.”