Back our bobbies, says Gateshead Opposition Leader

Northumbria Police force faces a £57 million loss over the next four years as part of potential Conservative cuts to police budgets as part of Wednesday's Autumn Statement. 

These cuts are likely to hit Neighbourhood Policing teams hardest and put 211 PCSOs at risk across the force area.

The Liberal Democrats are clear that Neighbourhood Policing teams are vital to community safety and cohesion and are campaigning against the looming cuts.

Speaking ahead of the Comprehensive Spending Review, Lord Paddick – the Liberal Democrats Home Affairs lead in the Lords and former Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner said:

“Neighbourhood policing has been a great success in providing reassurance to communities.

"By building trust and confidence between the police and the people they serve, neighbourhood policing teams are the front line in preventing radicalisation and trusted routes through which community intelligence can be passed, information on issues from drug dealing to terrorism.

“The government must ensure police forces are given the resources they need to maintain this vital part of policing.

Lib Dem leader of the Opposition on Gateshead Council Cllr Jonathan Wallace added:

“I know how hard our local policemen and women work to keep us all safe, day in and day out. It is shocking to see that the Conservative Government are failing to do right by them.  I am calling on the Government to rethink these damaging cuts and back our bobbies to protect frontline neighbourhood teams in the Northumbria force area.”

Animal welfare champion calls for end to puppy farming

Puppy farming needs to become a thing of the past, a leading Liberal Democrat and animal welfare campaigner has claimed.

Gateshead Councillor Peter Maughan, who is also chairman of Newcastle and North Northumberland RSPCA, made the call following a challenge by Lib Dem peer Kate Parminter in the House of Lords to the government to end puppy farming. Lady Parminter made the call on Monday 9^th November.

“In Gateshead there are two registered puppy farms,” said Peter. “Overall the system of licensing is weak and fails to give adequate welfare protection to dogs used to breed the puppies or to puppies themselves.

“My own preference is to see an end to puppy farms but if they are to continue, they need much tougher control and regulation. We have to put an end to squalid, unhealthy and often cruel circumstances in which puppies are farmed. We need to ban the sale of puppies below the age of 8 weeks.

“If farms are not registered and conforming to higher welfare standards, they should be closed down. People who buy puppies from them do not know how well their dog has been treated and do not have consumer protection.

“There is more protection in buying a fridge from an electrical store than a puppy from an unregistered puppy farm.

“I urge all those wanting to buy a puppy to go to a reputable breeder rather than a puppy farm where dogs are treated as puppy producing machines.”

Remembrance Day Parade - Whickham

Whickham hosted the largest of Gateshead's Remembrance Day parades yesterday which saw over 40 wreaths laid by organisations and individuals at the war memorial on Front Street.

You can see a full set of photos of the day in the above album.

New "snoopers charter" is a threat to ordinary people - but not to serious criminals - Frank Hindle

The proposed Investigatory Powers Bill will put law abiding citizen's personal data at risk - while the seriously bad guys will simply use servers that are based overseas. It seems that Ministers need to find out more about how internet services work before they try to legislate about them.

Low Fell Lib Dem Councillor Frank Hindle, a former Head of Computing at Northumbria University, has pointed out that the proposed requirement for Internet Providers to keep people's browsing history for a year is a threat to the privacy of ordinary people.

 "Our browsing habits say a lot about us. Whether it is looking up information about places before going away on holiday, or researching our own or our relatives’ illnesses, or simply the absence of any browsing when our homes are empty and unguarded, a perfectly innocent web browsing history will reveal things that we are entitled to keep private. Whatever safeguards the law might have (and at the moment they are inadequate) about how government agencies could use this data, the recent problems at TalkTalk demonstrate the risk that criminals will hack into and steal this data, and be able to use it to target their activities, or simply sell or publish it.

"But for any serious - or even semi-serious - criminal such as a terrorist, child pornographer, or drug trafficker it isn't hard to set up encrypted systems using a server or servers located outside of the UK that will let them do all the browsing they want out of reach of this proposed law. Expecting the internet service provider of someone doing this to be able to provide a meaningful browsing history is impossible.

"Similarly, the proposals don't make sense when it comes to services such as WhatsApp and iMessenger - internet companies are expected to be able to decrypt any messages, even though the companies have no way of knowing the key that is needed to do the decryption.

"Many of the proposals seem technologically illiterate and their absurdity is summed up by a quote by a researcher at University of Kent in New Scientist 'I don’t know what the legal position is on a government requiring a company to do something that is logically impossible.'"

Gateshead Labour pours £45,000 into plush revamp of offices for Leader and Cabinet

Despite having to find £22 million of cuts to services this year, Labour in Gateshead have poured £45,000 into a plush revamp of the offices for the Labour Leader of the Council and the all-Labour Cabinet.

And Liberal Democrats, who discovered the spending following a Freedom of Information request, are demanding to know why Labour have put their own comfort ahead of vital services to residents.

The total amount spent by the Labour Council on office improvements for the Labour leader, cabinet and Labour group secretary is £45,264.89.

“I think this is a staggering waste of money at a time of severe cutbacks to services on which many people in Gateshead rely,” said Cllr Jonathan Wallace, Leader of the Opposition in Gateshead.

“Labour have clearly demonstrated where their priorities lie. Their own leadership now has a comfortable office paid for by taxpayers from where they can decide how to slash services to pay for their own plush comfort.

“At a time when cuts have to be made to balance the books, Liberal Democrat Councillors in Gateshead are committed to helping identify, wherever possible, ways of finding savings without harming front line services.”

The same Freedom of Information request also revealed that the Council plans to spend nothing on the Opposition Office which has not been redecorated since 1986 when the Civic Centre was built.

“Cash is in short supply,” said Jonathan. “There are more important things on which to spend than an office revamp. So I’m happy that the wallpaper and furniture (other than one seat) in the Opposition Office hasn’t changed in 29 years!”

New Sands Allotment Show

Another garden show taking place recently was the New Sands Allotments' in Swalwell. The show was held in the Sun Inn and funds raised went to the Swalwell Community Group.

Whickham Flower Show

Whickham in Bloom's Flower Show was held in September. Well done to everyone who helped organise the event in St Mary's Church Hall and congratulations to everyone who won prizes.

Repairs taking place to Swalwell Pipebridge

Northumbrian Water are carrying out renovation work on the Victorian Pipebridge over the Derwent River in Swalwell, which still carries 25 million litres of water a day. Cllr Jonathan Wallace was given access to the bridge recently to film and photograph it.

Work is on-going to replace some of the pipe supports and brackets and some reinforcement work is taking place before the painting of the bridge is carried out.

Chase Park a Lotto winner as £1 million Lottery bid approved

The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery Fund have awarded just under £1 million (£922,900) to local community group Friends of Chase Park (FoCP) and Gateshead Council on plans that will see them work together on the restoration and improvement of Whickham’s historic Chase Park.

This is fantastic news for the group which was established by Cllr. Peter Craig in 2009 and has worked tirelessly towards this objective since then. The award will mean that residents will be able enjoy many more facilities. The existing toddler play area will be improved, tennis courts resurfaced and teenage play and skateboard areas built.

Plans over a three year period also include a restoration project for the windmill, entrance gates, paths and ornamental gardens, installation of an outdoor gym and trim trail, development of community garden and orchard and installation of new street furniture, signs and interpretations/artworks of heritage points of interest.

A Lottery award of £66,000 was made in Spring 2014 so that the Friends of Chase Park, working with Gateshead Council, could work up the bid from the HLF. A master plan for the park was drawn up in consultation with local award-winning landscape architects Southern Green.

Chair of Friends of Chase Park, Alan Scott said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this HLF and Big Lottery Fund grant and look forward to working with Gateshead Council and Southern Green to see the plans for the renaissance of our beloved Chase Park come to fruition.

“Returning the park to its former glory will be something the whole community can be proud of for many years to come.

“So many people have worked hard to get us where we are today and I give huge thanks to everyone involved for the effort and contributions made. Who would have dreamed we would be in this position as we set out on our journey all those years ago.”

Cllr. Peter Craig, Founder of the Friends group said “I would like to thank everyone who has made this possible, with a special thank you to the individuals who have stuck with this.

“It has taken us 6 years to reach this point and we are delighted that our bid has been successful, so that a rejuvenated Chase Park can continue to play an important part at the heart of our community.”

Pictured above: the historic windmill in Chase Park, Whickham, which will undergo restoration.

Gateshead set to lose £1 million due to Labour inaction

In 2012, Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government ensured local councils took control of public health from the NHS - and had a budget to go with the new powers.

They argued that councils are far better placed to address public health issues than the centralised, top down targets created by the previous Labour government.

After 2012, when the powers and the budgets were handed over, the only complaints came from Labour who attacked the Lib Dems for “not spending enough” on public health.

Sadly for Labour - and the residents of Gateshead - Labour’s agenda of all talk and no action has now put at risk £1 million of Gateshead’s public health money.

The Coalition Government gave Gateshead £12 million in 2014-15 for public health. The money can be spent only on public health. Labour inaction on the health issues facing Gateshead meant £1 million was left unspent.

And with the Conservatives now in government without the restraining hand of the Lib Dems to guide them along a liberal direction, George Osborne is planning a raid on unspent public health cash. And that could mean Gateshead handing back £1 million to the Treasury.

“Our area has significant public health issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, obesity and tobacco related diseases,” said Cllr Jonathan Wallace, Leader of the Opposition on Gateshead Council. “I find it quite shocking that Labour cried foul when the money was awarded to Gateshead. I find it even more shocking that, having claimed they had insufficient money, they then left £1 million unspent which we may now have to return to the Government.”

A1 closures

Work to upgrade the A1 will mean a number of temporary closures in coming weeks:

7^{th –}  11^th  September 2015: from junction 70 (Dunston) southbound entry slip closed, diversion via junction 71 (Metro Centre junction);

14^th – 19^th September 2015: A1 main carriageway closed junction 69 exit (Gateshead Quays) to junction 69 entry (Gateshead Quays) southbound;

15^th – 19^th September 2015: A1 main carriageway closed junction 69 exit (Gateshead Quays) to junction 69 entry (Gateshead Quays) northbound;

21^st – 25^th September 2015 & 28^th – 2^nd October 2015: A1 mainline closed from junction 73 (Derwenhaugh) to junction 68 (Lobley Hill);

3^rd – 10^th October 2015: A1 manline junction closed from junction 67 (Coal House) to 68 (Lobley Hill) north and southbound.

Sunniside Post Office Consultation

The Post Office have been modernising branches throughout the country and they are now planning to do the same with the branch in Sunniside.

There will be improvements to the service point and longer opening hours. However, the branch will no longer provide on-demand travel insurance or take payment by cheque. Most other services will remain unchanged.

Residents are being consulted on their views about the proposed changes. You can give feedback online at www.postofficeviews.co.uk. Click on the link about making comments on specific branch changes and then enter the unique code for the Sunniside branch 35732999.

The closing date for feedback is quite soon – 9^th September.

Concerns raised over damage to Marley Hill path

Liberal Democrat Councillor John McClurey has raised concerns about damage to the embankment between a popular footpath and the football pitch at Marley Hill. Damage has been caused by a heavy vehicle. The damage ground has now flooded.

"Residents first raised concerns with me earlier this week and we visited the site with officers from Gateshead Council to look at the damage," said Cllr McClurey.

"Whoever caused the damage left behind deep gullies which are now full of rainwater and mud. The smell from the stagnant water is not pleasant.

"We have asked officers to investigate the problem and see if there are ways to restore the damaged ground."

Clearing up Labour's mess

Welcome for City Deal

Gateshead Liberal Democrat Leader Frank Hindle has welcomed the new City Deal for the NewcastleGateshead area, which is expected to create 13,000 new jobs on Tyneside and see thousands of new homes being built on brownfield sites in Gateshead.

In a real boost to Gateshead, one of the four sites included in the 'Accelerated Development Zone' is Gateshead Quays and Baltic Business Quarter, where the planned new international conference and exhibition centre will be built. Increased revenues from the development have been ringfenced for the next twenty-five years - meaning money that is generated in Gateshead will be reinvested in Gateshead.

Other items in the deal include the rollout of superfast broadband, £1.7m extra to help unemployed young people into work or training and £150m to redevelop Gateshead's town centre.

Commenting on the proposals, Councillor Frank Hindle said: "This City Deal is a great deal for NewcastleGateshead and the wider North East region. Liberal Democrats on both sides of the river have lobbied government and worked with Labour colleagues to back the bid that has now been approved.

"The news that 13,000 new jobs will be created on Tyneside through the City Deal is fantastic. Gateshead has a crucial part in the scheme, and having Newcastle and Gateshead Councils work together in partnership on issues like youth unemployment and housing will help to deliver real improvements for both Gateshead and Newcastle.

"Liberal Democrats have long argued that money raised through taxes locally should be spent locally, and we are happy to see the ring-fencing of business rates in this deal - as it will be for twenty-five years, it will allow both Newcastle and Gateshead to be ambitious in investing for the long term future.

"Overall, the City Deal programme is a real win from the Liberal Democrats in government. It is a clear sign that we believe in our cities and are prepared to back up our beliefs by investing and handing back powers from Whitehall.

“NewcastleGateshead being selected to be part of this programme is a real endorsement of what Tyneside's economy has achieved in recent years and of the area's potential to be an engine of growth in the future, not just for the North East but for the country as a whole."

Proposed relocation of walk-in service

Proposals have been put forward to move the Gateshead NHS walk-in service from Bensham Hospital to a new, purpose-built Urgent and Emergency Care Hub alongside the Accident and Emergency Department at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

The aim of the proposed move is to improve the service to residents by bringing various services together under one roof, making it easier for patients to access the correct service. Currently, walk-in, urgent and emergency care and accident and emergency are at different locations and people often have to travel between them for treatment.

Gateshead NHS health organisations believe that the new emergency care hub will ensure the delivery of a seamless service for patients from a single entry point. Once assessed and triaged, patients will then be directed to the most appropriate practitioner for treatment. Additional car parking space is also planned at the QE hospital site.

A formal public consultation exercise on this new proposal is being undertaken with Gateshead residents and patients from 18 June 2012 to 10 September 2012. Copies of the consultation leaflet are available at http://gatesheadccg.nhs.uk/.

Wetherspoons – no decision yet

Gateshead Council’s planning committee has put off a decision on the application to convert the former Whickham Council Offices into a Wetherspoons pub. The committee members will visit the site shortly before taking the final decision.

Dunston Hill School proposed for demolition

Gateshead Council are proposing to demolish the former Dunston Hill Primary School. The building has been empty since the school transferred to the new site but since then, its condition has deteriorated.
The former school was proposed as the location for the controversial Emmaus project to house homeless people but the charity withdrew their plans after residents strongly opposed them.

A further reason for the cancellation of the Emmaus project was the poor state of the building. Council officers believe that the cost of restoring and converting the building to another use would be too expensive.

The Council are already paying management and other costs even though the building is unoccupied. Officers believe that demolishing it will make it easier to sell the site to a developer for housing, commercial or mixed use.

Councillor Peter Maughan said, “As a former pupil of the school, I have an emotional attachment to it. However, I would like to know residents’ views on the demolition proposal. Please contact me if you have concerns.”

New build for Whickham School

Whickham School has been successful in its bid for funding for a new teaching block. There will be 8 new classrooms in the new building, plans for which are currently being drawn up. It is likely that once the plans have received planning permission, the new classrooms will take only 12 months to build.

Councillor Peter Craig said, “This is great news for the school and for the pupils. Whickham School continues to be a popular school and the new building is greatly needed.”

Whickham School was granted academy status last year. Under it, the school was made independent of council control and now gets its funding directly from the government. The money for the new building will come from the Coalition’s Academies Capital Maintenance Fund.

Welcome for new Front Street School

A decision by the Coalition Government to rebuild Front Street School in Whickham, has been welcomed by Councillors representing the town on Gateshead Council.

Front Street School recently celebrated its centenary but the school buildings are starting to show their age. The school straddles a road which children have to cross between lessons. Some of the buildings were put up as temporary annexes in the 1950s but still remain in use.

School governor and local Liberal Democrat Councillor, John McClurey, said, “This is great news for the children and staff at Front Street School.

“The investment in a new building was certainly needed. It is not a good state of affairs to have children crossing a road to get to classrooms between lessons.

“A site next to the school has been kept for decades as the home for the new Front Street School. And after decades of hope that the new school would one day be built, the Government is now about to make it happen.”

Pictured above: Cllr Marilynn Ord and Cllr John McClurey outside Front Street School. They have welcomed the decision to replace the old building.

Residents battle to save Dunston Hill greenbelt

A group of residents campaigning to save greenbelt at Dunston Hill from house-building plans has handed in a petition to Gateshead Council signed by over 1600 residents.

The hand over took place and Thursday 5th July. Members of the residents’ action group are hoping to persuade Gateshead Council to abandon proposals to build 800 executive homes on greenbelt between Whickham, Dunston Hill and Lobley Hill.

Resident Steve Potts said, “Over 1000 people have signed the petition and we hope the Council will take note of the strength of public opinion against the greenbelt proposals.”

People living in the Dunston Hill area fear that the building plans would lead to the loss of large parts of the local countryside.

Resident Janet Ord said, “Watergate Park is a great place for wildlife but building 800 houses next to it will be damaging for the environment.

“There are many brownfield sites waiting to be used for housing in Gateshead. I therefore can’t see why Gateshead Council believe that Dunston Hill should be turned into a huge building site.”

Lib Dem campaigner Dave Fawcett has recently added to the total number of signatures on the petition when he collected 178 in Lobley Hill.

Pictured above: Steve Potts and local residents and campaigners with the petition calling on the Dunston Hill greenbelt to be retained. The petition has now been handed in to Gateshead Council's planners.

Cadets taking part in Olympic Festival

Teenage police cadets from Gateshead are on their marks to participate in this weekend's Whickham Community Festival.

A trio of young volunteers will join a Special Constable to support the Olympic themed festival on St Mary's Green and marshal the fun run in Chase Park.

Gateshead Council has invited the young volunteers to attend and join local residents in the community event that includes lots of family entertainment and other attractions.

Councillor Sonya Hawkins said, “Arrangements for this event have been made thanks to a partnership approach involving local business people, residents, The Rotary Club, St Mary’s Church and councillors. We’re delighted that Northumbria Police cadets are joining us and looking forward to people coming along to boost funds for the village’s Christmas decorations.

“This sort of event we hope will boost the vitality of Whickham village and encourage people to visit, shop and enjoy its facilities.”

PC Alicia Swindells, volunteer cadet leader, added: “This is another opportunity for our young volunteers to support their local community. It means they can chat with families and make sure local residents know about volunteer police cadets and the exciting activities they are involved in. It is a good way to get a positive message across as part of a fun event."

Olympics Festival in Whickham

CHILDREN in the Whickham area will get the chance to take part in their own mini-Olympics in a special fun day festival in the village on Saturday 7th July.

And proceeds from the Whickham Olympics Festival will go towards paying for the Christmas decorations for the Village.

The Festival has been organised by a group called “Light Up Whickham”, made up of local business people, the Whickham Rotarians, Councillors, local community activists and St Mary’s Church.

“Saturday will be a great day out for everyone in the Whickham area,” said Alan Nicholson, chairman of Whickham Rotarians, who has been involved with helping to get the event off the ground.

“We want to show that Whickham Village is a great place to visit. We want people to boost local businesses by coming here to shop as well.

“We hope to have an annual festival and the Olympics was an obvious choice of theme for this year.”

Revd Barry Abbott of St Mary’s Church said, “'In the midst of the present economic climate a group of people decided it was time to put Whickham back on the map as a place to visit, shop and have a great day out.

“Local schools, businesses and residents will be taking part in fun runs, hoola hoop competitions and treasure hunts. Many local organisations, schools and businesses will be having stands on St Mary’s Green.

“The Village will be decked out in red, white and blue for Saturday. It will be a fun day for people of all ages and there will be great entertainment provided by local musicians.”

The Festival will see Whickham lighting its own Olympic flame at 1.30pm in St Mary’s Green. There will be children’s fun runs in Chase Park from 11am onwards.

Music will be provided by the Take Note Singers, the Tune Army, Catherine L’Anson Clough and Emmanuel College Singers.

Ryton and Crawcrook residents reject greenbelt building plans

Residents of Crawcrook, Greenside and Ryton have rejected proposals to build hundreds of houses on local greenbelt, according to a survey by local Liberal Democrat Councillors.

Gateshead Council have published proposals for 1,000 houses on countryside around the villages but local Lib Dem Councillors are battling against the building plans. They decided to carry out a survey of residents to test opinion on Gateshead’s plans.

Councillor Noel Rippeth said, “This is a very clear demonstration of public opinion which is massively against these proposals to build on local greenbelt. The character and nature of the villages here is under threat from these plans.

“We are urging Labour councillors to abandon them rather than push ahead with grabbing the greenbelt.”

Councillor Ione Rippeth said, “We know there is a need to build new houses but we should not wreck our countryside to achieve this goal. We should be using up brownfield sites rather than sending the bulldozers into the greenbelt.”

The results of the survey are as follows:

Crawcrook

250 survey forms delivered, 107 completed and returned.

Question: Do you agree that 494 houses should be built in Crawcrook's Greenbelt?

Answer: Yes 4, No 103

Question: Do you think 494 houses is too many for the village?

Answer: Yes 97, No 10

Ryton

300 survey forms delivered, 142 completed and returned.

Question: Do you agree that 505 houses should be built in Ryton's Greenbelt?

Answer: Yes 4, No 138

Question: Do you think that 505 houses is too many for the village?

Answer: 64 replied Yes, No 0

House-building threat to historic site

Proposals to build 800 houses on greenbelt between Whickham, Dunston and Lobley Hill in Gateshead could destroy important historic sites as well as the countryside, claims a local historian.

Dr Jonathan Wallace, who is also a Liberal Democrat Councillor in Gateshead, said the site being considered for the new housing is next to the Washingwell Roman fort which was discovered in 1970.

The only evidence for the existence of the fort so far discovered is crop marks and one small piece of pottery.

“Although the site of the Roman fort is not included in the area proposed for house-building, it is very close to it,” said Dr Wallace. “Most Roman forts attracted civilian settlements and as yet, no contemporary village has been found.

“There is a strong possibility that a Roman settlement and the road connecting the fort to others along the former Roman frontier are on the site proposed for house-building. These would all be lost if the site proposed for housing is given the go-ahead.

“At a time when we should be developing our cultural and historical sites as locations to draw in visitors, and therefore boost our tourist economy, building at this location will send us in the opposite direction.”

North East Liberal Democrats welcome scheme to tackle metal theft

North East Liberal Democrats have welcomed a new scheme to tackle metal theft.

From Tuesday 3rd January a news scheme will be introduced requiring anyone selling scrap metal to a dealer to provide proof of identity and address. The scheme is being trialled in the North East and all 240 registered scrap merchants are expected to sign up to the scheme.

Cllr Frank Hindle said “Metal theft has been a huge problem, affecting the Metro and rail systems, individual homes and businesses - and sometimes whole streets have been systematically targeted. This scheme should choke off the ability of thieves to sell the stolen metal.

"Local Liberal Democrat councillors and Lib Dem MEP Fiona Hall have been pressing for action to tackle this problem and I am pleased that the government, police and the legitimate scrap industry are working together on this scheme. We will also continue to press for other changes, such as ending cash sales of scrap metal.”

Residents reject building plans by massive majority

Residents of Dunston Hill and eastern Whickham in Gateshead have overwhelmingly rejected proposals to allow building on the local greenbelt.

Gateshead Council’s Strategic Land Review is considering proposals to allow around 800 houses to be built on land to the south of Whickham Highway, between Dunston and Whickham.

Local Liberal Democrat Councillor Peter Maughan, who is leading the battle against the house building plans, carried out a survey of residents of Dunston Hill. He has received replies from 303 households in the area.

The results of the survey are:

oppose greenbelt building plans: 253 (83%)
support building if roads improved: 14 (4%)
support building a smaller number: 21 (7%)
support the proposals: 5 (2%)
don’t know: 10 (4%)

“If anyone wants evidence of the public opposition to this proposal to grab the local greenbelt, they need look no further than the results of this survey,” said Peter. “My survey shows overwhelming opposition to the proposals. Only one in fifty residents back the proposals to use this area for house building.

“I have been sent hundreds of comments by residents about the house-building plans which I will be passing on to the planners at Gateshead Council.

“I will also be telling them it’s time to pull the plug on this greenbelt smash and grab “

Changes planned at Gibside Estate

Gibside Estate has submitted plans to Gateshead Council to remove the over-flow car park within the walled garden and to restore it to garden use. The replacement parking will be provided within the West Wood (main car park) and at the Warren Haugh (over-flow car park).

Both these areas are located on the left of the main drive up to the estate from Busty Bank. The West Wood area is currently planted up by the Forestry Commission and the Warren Haugh is agricultural/grazing land.

Over both car parks, 365 new spaces will be provide. This is less than the 380 spaces within the walled garden at present.

A new admissions hut is also proposed at the Warren Haigh car park.

Parking charges to start in January

As expected, Labour-led Gateshead Council have pushed through their plans for car park charges in Whickham, despite strong resistance from local residents, businesses and councillors.

However, a last minute objection by your local Lib Dem councillors has meant a delay in implementing the scheme and also some success in gaining some concessions.

To support the Safe Routes to School scheme at Front Street School, the starting time for car park charging in both car parks has been pushed back from 8:30 am to 9:00 am.

Drivers using the West (Gibside Arms) car park solely for the purposes of using the recycling facilities will not be charged.

No charges will apply to electric vehicles utilising the electric charging points.

In the East (Library) car park, parking charges will be 20p per hour up to a maximum of 4 hours. The West (Gibside Arms) car park will cost £1 all day. Charging is now due to commence on Monday 9th January 2012.

Lib Dem campaigner Sonya Hawkins said, “The charges risk damaging businesses in Whickham and will push parking into residential streets.

“The £30,000 spent on installing ticket machines will take years to get back. That money would have been much better spent on improving the car parks.

“We have also asked if any future profit from the charges will be used in Whickham village - but the answer is that it might be used to improve car parks in other parts of Gateshead - including ones that don’t have charges. This simply isn’t fair or reasonable.”

Residents views sought on house building

A LIBERAL Democrat Councillor in Gateshead is carrying out a survey of residents of Dunston to find out their views about Gateshead Council’s proposals to build houses on local greenbelt.

Gateshead’s Labour Council are carrying out a “Strategic Land Review” under which local landowners have been invited to put forward bids to have their land used for house building.

One of the sites is to the south of Whickham Highway on Dunston Hill where the Labour-run Council are proposing 800 homes could be built.

Councillor Peter Maughan, who represents the area on Gateshead Council, delivered survey forms on Sunday 13th November and collected 140 replies in the evening.

“I am very concerned about these proposals,” said Cllr Maughan. “I have represented local people on Gateshead Council for many years and I have always fought to protect the greenbelt here.

“I decided to carry out the survey to find out the strength of opinion about Labour’s plans to build on the greenbelt here.

“We got a very good response over the weekend. However, I have already started to produce a report on the results so if residents want their views to be included, they should get their completed survey forms back to me as soon as possible.”

Alcohol Awareness hits the road

Gateshead residents will be able to get information, advice and support for alcohol related issues as a road show marks Alcohol Awareness Week (14 – 18 November).

Advice will be provided to residents on their doorsteps as the Safer Gateshead Partnership - consisting of Gateshead Council, Gateshead PCT, Northumbria Police, The Gateshead Housing Company and the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service - and Victim Support take to the streets throughout the week.

Starting on Monday 14 November, the Alcohol Awareness bus will visit sites across the borough including Gateshead High Street, Blaydon Leisure & Primary Care Centre, Springwell Community Centre, Tyne View Children’s Centre, Fewster Square and many more. A full list of locations is available at www.gateshead.gov.uk

This year’s Alcohol Awareness campaign focuses on the effects alcohol has on those around you. The road show will include information on a campaign led by Balance It, the North East’s Alcohol Office, highlighting the damage that alcohol advertising is having on children. Visitors to the bus will have the opportunity to sign the campaign petition to introduce a 9pm watershed in an attempt to stop alcohol advertising reaching children.

Gateshead Council cabinet member for community safety, Cllr Peter Mole, said: “Minimising the impact of alcohol-related harm has been one of the four strategic priorities that were identified for 2011/12 for the Safer Gateshead Partnership.”

“Alcohol Awareness Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of all alcohol misuse issues, as well as to promote the work of alcohol treatment service providers across England and Wales. We’re all exposed to the second hand harms of other people’s drinking and the road show will offer people advice and support in how to deal with this.”

According to Gateshead PCT, there are around 4,000 hospital admissions each year caused by alcohol in Gateshead, with two thirds among men. In 2010, 55 deaths in Gateshead were also caused by alcohol.

As well as advice and support, the week long road show will also offer free NHS health checks for those aged 40 – 74 years, information on other support services available in the borough and more.

The Safer Gateshead Partnership is a collaboration of Gateshead Council, Gateshead PCT, Northumbria Police, The Gateshead Housing Company and the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, with the purpose of addressing community safety issues across Gateshead.

The Alcohol Awareness Week road show is supported by NECA, NERAF, SMART and Turning Point.

Redheugh Bridge closure

The Redheugh Bridge will be closed for maintenance works on Sunday 30th October 2011 between 06:00 and 18:00.

Go North East Service 10/10A/11 inbound services will divert via Team Street, Centrelink, Swing Bridge and Forth Banks (as per Mon-Fri am journeys), omitting Clockmill Road and Derwentwater Road and rejoining the normal route on Clayton Street West.

Other Go North East services affected by the closure will divert as follows:

Buses will divert inbound via Askew Road, Hills Street, Tyne Bridge, Tyne Bridge slip road, Mosley Street, St Nicholas Street one-way system to Neville Street then normal route from Clayton Street.

Outbound services to operate from Eldon Square via Percy Street, Newgate Street, Grainger St, Neville Street, then Clayton Street, Westgate Road to St Nicholas Street, then High Level Bridge, Askew Road then normal route.

Services operating from Redheugh Bridge to Central Newcastle towards Tyne Bridge 97/98 53/54 etc., these will operate similar route from Redheugh Bridge roundabout via Askew Road, Hills Street, Tyne Bridge, Mosley Street, Church Chare one-way system to Neville Street then normal route via Bewick Street etc towards Gateshead.

Opposite direction will be normal route from Gateshead to Neville Street/Central Station, then Clayton Street, Westgate Road, St Nicholas Street, Collingwood Street, Swan House roundabout, Tyne Bridge then normal route.

Stagecoach Service 100 will divert (non-stop) via Scotswood Road and Scotswood Bridge to the Metro Centre.

Whickham building plans dropped

A PROPOSAL to allow house-building to the south of Fellside Park in Whickham has been abandoned by Gateshead Council following strong opposition from local Liberal Democrat Councillors.

The proposals were considered as part of Gateshead Council’s “Strategic Land Review” which is looking at building thousands of houses in Gateshead over the next two decades. The vast majority of the areas being considered for new housing are greenfield sites in the west of the borough.

Councillors John McClurey, Marilynn Ord and Jonathan Wallace met planning officers during the summer to discuss the house-building plans.

“We said very clearly that there was no way we could support the proposal to extend Fellside Park by building on the land up to the Clockburn Lonnen,” said John.

“Fellside Road is already very busy and during the rush hour it becomes congested. Adding more houses to Fellside Park would have made a bad traffic situation worse.

“In addition, the area proposed for development is open countryside which adds to the quality of life for Fellside residents.

“We are pleased that following our objections, the Council has removed the Fellside Park proposals from the house building proposals.”

Photo - Councillors Marilynn Ord and John McClurey on the site to the south of Fellside Park, Whickham, which Gateshead Council had considered for house-building. The proposals have now been dropped.

Swalwell Park developments

The Swalwell Park Development Group has been successful in obtaining £50,000 funding from SITA to start the second phase in the Park’s redevelopment.

The Group, made up of local residents, works in partnership with local councillors, Gateshead Council and Tyne & Wear Play Association to improve the park facilities.

This funding, together with money from Swalwell councillors’ Local Community Fund will help the Group to improve play provision. The new equipment will be used for teenage play and active outdoor gym equipment.

Terraces consultation under way

In March Gateshead Council approved the introduction of a licensing scheme for private landlords in the Swalwell Terraces subject to necessary consultation. This followed discussions between local councillors, the Council Leader and the Chief Executive of the Council when they visited Swalwell at the end of last year.

A full ten week consultation exercise is now under way, with the current plan to introduce the scheme in 2012. This commenced with a consultation event which was held on 27th September 2011 at Swalwell Community Centre.

All residents in the Terraces area should by now have received a postal questionnaire, advising of the proposals and asking for views.

In addition, a questionnaire has been posted to all known private landlords and agents in the area. A further consultation event was held on 4th October 2011 in the Civic Centre.

A representative of the Private sector Housing Team attended the Swalwell residents meeting on 6th October 2011 to advise and discuss proposals.

There is still an opportunity for you to have you say. Any individual or organisation may complete a questionnaire via the Council website. Go to http://www.gateshead.gov.uk/Housing/helpsupportadvice/PrivateLandlords/Licensing/CentralGatesheadandSwalwelllicensingconsultation.aspx.


The last date for these forms to be completed is Friday 28th October.

Feedback from the consultation will be used to inform the Council Cabinet who will make the final decision in November, whether or not to go ahead with the scheme.

£360,000 for Whickham and Dunston schools

Schools in Whickham and Dunston in Gateshead are set to receive an additional £360,000 this year thanks to the Pupil Premium which is being introduced by the Government.

The Pupil Premium is an additional payment to schools for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The policy was one of the top four general election manifesto commitments by the Liberal Democrats last year.

Dunston and Whickham Liberal Democrat Councillor Peter Maughan said, “This extra cash for local schools is a great boost for children’s education in the area.

“The aim of the Pupil Premium is to ensure all children have the best start in life. The last Labour government left a shocking legacy where the richest 16-year olds are three times as likely to get five good GCSEs as the poorest.

“The Government has already protected schools from the cuts needed to reduce the Deficit. The extra Pupil Premium money will go straight to local schools and can’t be siphoned off by the Labour Council to be spent on their pet projects elsewhere. The schools will be free to spend the money on what is best for their pupils.”

Liberal Democrat Schools Minister Sarah Teather recently announced that the total Pupil Premium funding for next year will rise to £1.25bn, double the amount in 2011-12. Lib Dem ministers have successfully negotiated a further rise again each year until 2014-15 when it will be worth £2.5bn.

Swalwell street surgery

Liberal Democrat Councillors in Swalwell will be holding a street surgery for local residents this weekend.

It will be held on Saturday 15th October at The Oaklands estate, (next to the postbox on Beverley Drive), between 10:00 and 11:00 am. We hope to see you there.

All residents are welcoem to come along if they have issues to raise with their local councillors.

Mayor in Marley Hill to celebrate coal heritage

Mayor of Gateshead, Joe Mitchinson, was in Marley Hill on Thursday 6th October to celebrate the unvieling of restored coal tubs that form part of a floral display.

The coal tubs were formerly outside Marley Hill Primary School. When the school was closed in December, there was general consensus that the coal tubs should be retained as part of the heritage of the village whose mine closed in 1983.

The tubs had been used as part of a floral display at the school and it was felt that they should be used again in the same way.

The three local councillors - Jonathan Wallace, John McClurey and Marilynn Ord - arranged for the restoration of the tubs to be part financed by the Local Community Fund. Durham Aged Miners' Housing Association also covered some of the costs and gave permission for the tubs to be placed on their land, in front of the Marley Hill Aged Miners' Homes.

Restoration work was carried out during 2011 by the Tanfield Railway.

You can see the ceremony in the above video.

Delight as Emmaus pulls out of Dunston

Homeless charity Emmaus have decided not to go ahead with their plans to convert Dunston Hill School into a centre for homeless people. And the decision not to proceed has been welcomed by the local Lib Dem Councillor, Peter Maughan, who helped residents fight the scheme.

Councillor Maughan, who organised the public meeting for residents about the plan to change the school to a centre to house and train homeless people, said the decision to end the plans was the right one for Dunston.

“Whilst the aims of Emmaus were laudable, the location was completely wrong,” said Peter. “Residents expressed considerable concern about the impact on Dunston village.

“I am pleased that Emmaus have recognised that a proposal of this sort needs strong community backing which in this instance, was not there.

“Those who supported the plan, such as Labour MP for the area, David Anderson, were in a small minority. At the public meeting I arrange, the community made its position abundantly clear that this was a scheme they did not want to go ahead.

“I will be contacting council officers soon to raise concerns about the future of the Dunston Hill School site. An alternative use needs to be found for it but it must be one that is acceptable to the community of Dunston.”

Opencast campaign goes on-line

A campaign fighting to stop plans for an opencast mine has gone on-line to reach more people.

Gateshead Council will decide in October whether or not to accept an application by Halls Construction to opencast 225,000 tonnes of coal from Birklands, near Kibblesworth.

A group has been set up to fight the plans and Liberal Democrat Councillor, Jonathan Wallace, has been helping the campaign to have the application rejected.

Cllr Wallace led the campaign against the plans by Halls Construction six years ago to opencast over 400,000 tonnes of coal at Skons Park, near Whickham.

“We have gone on-line to be able to reach more people,” said Cllr Wallace. “The site has already been visited by hundreds of people and many have signed the petition against the plans on-line.

“If this application goes ahead, we are very concerned about the impact on villages such as Kibblesworth, Lamesley, Marley Hill and Sunniside. We are also concerned that this application could create a precedent for more applications in our local countryside if it is allowed to go ahead.
“Many local people have signed the petition but there has been interest from across the country as well.

“Gateshead’s countryside is a great resource for our area. There is a growing tourist industry as well. Tourism and opencast mining do not mix. People understand that which is why many people have backed the petition.”

The campaign website is http://www.savebirklands.org.uk/

Whickham phone masts rejected

Two phone masts planned for Whickham in Gateshead have been rejected by the Council’s planning committee after campaigns by local Lib Dem councillors and residents.

Vodaphone and 02 wanted to put the masts at the junction of Broom Lane and Whaggs Lane and at the top of Leasyde Walk in Fellside Park. Both locations were close to people’s homes.

Councillors on the planning committee rejected both applications on Wednesday 17th August. Two petitions opposing each application had been handed in to the Council.

Councillor Peter Maughan, who helped residents campaign against the planning applications, said, “Residents asked us to help run the petitions as they were concerned about these masts being too close to people’s homes.

“These big phone companies cannot expect to ride roughshod over people. I was angry they had submitted these applications as the same companies put in almost exactly the same plans earlier this year which were rejected by the planning committee in April.

“These phone companies don’t seem to want to take ‘No!’ as an answer. Hopefully they will now let residents live in peace.”

Photo above: site on Fellside Road, Whickham, where councillors have rejected plans for a phone mast.

Sun Hill residents call for home to be kept open

Residents of Sun Hill, Sunniside, rallied outside their home on Saturday 13th August, calling for the aged persons' home to be kept open.

Residents battle to keep open aged persons’ home

Residents of Sun Hill in Sunniside, Gateshead are to rally together and launch a petition opposing proposals that could see their aged persons’ home close without a replacement.

Sun Hill is a popular location and has been home to Sunniside’s senior citizens for the last forty years. But the Council is considering closing the home as it does not come up to modern standards.

There are fears that without Sun Hill in place, Sunniside will be without a home for older residents.

“The knock on effect of closing and not replacing Sun Hill would be enormous in Sunniside,” said Cllr John McClurey, Liberal Democrat councillor for the village, who is helping residents campaign to keep a home for older people in the village.

“Without Sun Hill, many older people in Sunniside will opt to stay in their existing homes. That will mean fewer family homes available for people with young children in the village.

“Sun Hill has been a great success and the residents love living there. There is a very strong community spirit in the home and many activities take place in the community lounge. When you move into Sun Hill it’s like joining a family. I am worried this will be lost if Sun Hill is closed.”

Residents will be rallying outside Sun Hill to launch a petition calling for Sun Hill to be retained at 11am on Saturday 13th August.

Gateshead School closures due to weather

The following schools are closed on Wednesday 1st December due to weather conditions:

Birtley East Nursery
All Saints Pre-School, Lobley Hill
Barley Mow Primary
Bill Quay Primary
Byermoor Sacred Heart RC VA
Caedmon Primary
Cardinal Hume RC Secondary
Chopwell Primary
Colegate Primary
Dryden Special School
Dunston Hill Primary
Lingey House Primary
Dunston Riverside Primary
Eslington Primary
Gibside School
Highfield Community Primary
Hookergate School
Kibblesworth Primary
Lobley Hill Primary
Marley Hill Primary
South Street Primary
St, Josephs RC VA Primary, Gateshead
St. Annes RC VA Primary
St Oswald's RC VA Primary Nursery
Swalwell Primary
Washingwell Primary
Whickham Front Street Primary
Windy Nook Primary

“End delays and sort parking” - Lib Dems tell Council

Businesses and their customers in Low Fell have complained about the time it is taking the Council to sort out parking restrictions on Durham Road in Low Fell.

Over two years ago they asked the Council to allow some short stay parking at the shops, so that people could stop and collect their shopping without getting a parking ticket.

Councillor Ron Beadle said “Gateshead Council is letting everyone down. Last year it was agreed to make changes – but internal delays at the Civic Centre mean that tickets are still being issued, and local businesses are continuing to suffer.

“Labour Councillors say they are concerned about local people and the economy, but Low Fell is certainly one place where they aren’t showing it. We will keep pressing at all levels until this problem is dealt with.”

Photo: Councillors Frank Hindle and Ron Beadle on Durham Road, Low Fell, where they are pressing the Council to sort parking issues.

"Get Carter" gets demolished

WORK has restarted on pulling down an eyesore landmark building in Gateshead. Demolition teams moved back on to the site of the “Get Carter” car park in the town centre following the suspension of work last year.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Frank Hindle has welcomed the news that the building should be gone by the end of September. It was made famous by the 1970s classic film “Get Carter” starring Michael Caine.

Frank, who is Deputy Leader of the Opposition on Gateshead Council, also welcomed the news that Tesco have submitted a planning application for Trinity Square in Gateshead.

Frank said “People in Gateshead have waited a long time for the moment when the car park disappears from the skyline.

“I am glad that Tesco and the Council are making good progress towards developing a modern town centre that local people can enjoy, and that will draw in new business.”

Local resident and Lib Dem campaigner Dave Fawcett said, “Getting rid of the current part demolished centre and the eyesore of the old car park will be a vital and very welcome step.

“The decision by Tesco to go ahead with a major redevelopment and to invest a huge amount in our town centre is a vote of confidence in the economy that should boost jobs and incomes.”

Earlier this year Frank led an on-line campaign and petition at www.ourtrinitysquare.org.uk and calling on Tesco to get a move on with its plans for Trinity Square.

(Photo: Dave Fawcett and Frank Hindle outside the "Get Carter" car park on the day work began again to demolish it.)

Green policies “will boost Gateshead jobs” say Lib Dems

GREEN policies on which the Liberal Democrats fought the general election have been included in the Agreement that led to the creation of the Coalition Government. And Liberal Democrats say the measures will boost the local economy as well as save Gateshead households on energy bills.

Policies agreed by the Government include the setting up of a green investment bank and a reform of the banking system to make sure that banks lend to viable British businesses. There will also be measures to improve energy efficiency in homes and businesses and support for low carbon energy production and an increase in the target for energy from renewable sources.

“Gateshead Council is considering plans to generate clean electricity in the borough from renewable sources,” said Councillor Jonathan Wallace.

“Liberal Democrat Secretary of State for Energy, Chris Huhne, has announced that councils will now be allowed to sell any surplus electricity they create to customers via the National Grid. Under Labour they were banned from doing so.

“This will boost green energy production in the borough and help to create more local jobs. Plans to increase energy efficiency in homes through better insulation will also create jobs in Gateshead whilst the work is carried out. And that will also mean lower energy bills for households in Gateshead.”

Euro MP welcomes Metro upgrade

FIONA HALL, Liberal Democrat Euro MP for the North East of England, has welcomed the announcement by the Coalition Government that an upgrade to the Metro system will go ahead, costing up to £350 million.

In a message to residents of Gateshead, Fiona said, “The upgrade of the Metro system will lead to significant improvements for users of the service.

“Money is very tight at the moment. The new Government has inherited the worst financial situation in over 60 years. Even so, the Metro was a top priority for the Coalition and approval has been given for the project to go ahead.

“My hope is that once the improvements are made, more people will opt to use the Metro rather than drive. This will help cut congestion and pollution on Tyneside.”

Review of Marley Hill and Sacred Heart Primary Schools

Gateshead Council’s consultation with parents about the future of Marley Hill and Sacred Heart RC Primary School in Byermoor has now ended.

A report will be brought to Gateshead Council’s Cabinet in September once the results of the consultaiton have been considered.

Since the option of closing Marley Hill was first raised last year, many parents have decided to move their children to Washingwell School where there were surplus places.

The effect of this has been to increase the viability of Washingwell.
At the meeting in September, the Cabinet will take a decision on whether or not to keep Marley Hill and Sacred Heart open.

Solution found to unfinished house in Whickham

Gateshead Council has resolved a long-running planning dispute that left the large house on Swalwell Bank, Whickham, unfinished for 5 years.

In 2005 Gateshead Council’s Planning Committee authorised the removal of the third storey because of the impact on neighbouring homes. However, almost 5 years to the day later, the Committee discussed new proposals for the building which will see the replacement of the pitched roof with a flat one.

Pleas for the original decision of 2005 to be upheld were turned down. Conditions were also placed on the planning consent relating to landscaping and privacy issues.

Cllr Peter Craig said “Neighbouring residents were concerned about the height and mass of the building and an inadequate landscaping plan. They do not feel the latest decision addresses these concerns adequately.”

Welcome for Washingwell Woods restoration

A woodland in a local country park is to be restored to its natural state. Washingwell Woods is popular with residents of Whickham, Sunniside, Dunston and Lobley Hill.

Over the next 5 years Gateshead Council are to work with the Forestry Commission and Natural England to restore the woods. Conifer trees will be harvested to allow the natural woodland plants to recover and trees to re-establish through the process of natural regeneration.

Restoration will be carried out sensitively and gradually to bring these woods back to life. The restoration of ancient woodland is a top UK biodiversity priority. Many of the footpaths within the woodland will be fully restored after the forestry works have been carried out.

“I am pleased that this work will be carried out,” said Lobley Hill Lib Dem campaigner Michael Ruddy.

“Washingwell Woods is an important green location which makes the area all the more attractive as a place to live.”

“The creation of Lotties Wood near Sunniside shows what can be done with a properly managed woodland,” said Cllr Yvonne McNicol. “A great wooded parkland can be created for all to enjoy as well as establishing an important haven for wildlife.”

(Photo: Cllr Yvonne McNicol and Michael Ruddy at Fugar Bar, next to Washingwell Woods)

Welcome for “Get Carter” demolition

A LEADING Liberal Democrat Councillor has given the thumbs up to the news that a date has been set to restart the job of pulling down the infamous “Get Carter” car park in Gateshead.

Low Fell Councillor, Frank Hindle, who is also Deputy Leader of the Opposition on Gateshead Council, welcomed the news that Tesco have submitted a planning application for Trinity Square in Gateshead and that demolition of the eyesore car park in the square is due to start on 26th July.

Frank said “People in Gateshead have waited a long time for this moment. I am glad that Tesco and the Council have now managed to get to this stage, and look forward to seeing the details of the proposed redevelopment.

“Gateshead needs a modern town centre that local people can enjoy, and that will draw in new business. Getting rid of the current part demolished centre and the eyesore of the old car park will be a vital and very welcome step.”

Earlier this year Frank Hindle led an on-line campaign at www.ourtrinitysquare.org.uk and a petition calling on Tesco to get a move on with its plans for Trinity Square.

Photo: Councillor Frank Hindle outside the "Get Carter" car park

Pelaw housing plan sparks concerns

A PLAN to develop the site of the former shirt factory on Shields Road, Pelaw, Gateshead, has sparked concerns from a local Liberal Democrat Councillor.

The Co-operative Group, which owns the site, applied for planning permission to demolish the factory and have the site made available for housing. Outline permission was granted by Gateshead Council’s Planning Committee on 16th June.

But Councillor Ian Patterson has warned that traffic problems in the area could be made worse by the development. The site is only 350 metres from the Shields Road junction with the busy Felling Bypass.

Councillor Patterson spoke against the plans when they were discussed by the Committee.

“There are ongoing issues affecting traffic on Shields Road, especially congestion at peak periods and incidents of rat running over the Kirkstone Road bridge,” said Cllr Patterson.

‘This is a disappointing decision but when the substantive application is submitted, we will revisit the matter.”

Developers will have to bring details plans for housing on the site before final permission for building can be granted.

Council petition plan welcomed

Gateshead residents will soon be able to petition the Council to debate specific local issues. And the petition plan has been welcomed by a leading member of the Liberal Democrat opposition.

All councils have been required to introduce a scheme that will give people the right to petition for debates on issues of local concern. 2000 signatures on a petition will trigger a debate at a subsequent council meeting.

And by December, all Councils will be required to allow people to set up on-line petitions on their websites on issues relevant to the work of local government.

Councillor Jonathan Wallace, a keen supporter of on-line communication with residents, has welcomed the plans but wants Gateshead Council to go further.

“Allowing people to petition the council to hold a debate on a specific local issue is a good step forward,” said Cllr Wallace. “On-line petitions have already been tried out on the Downing Street website and have attracted some interest.

“My concern is that Gateshead will allow a debate of only 15 minutes on a petition issue. Once the leader of the Council and Leader of the Opposition have spoken, there will be little time left for other Councillors to take part.

“This could curtail the debate and prevent Councillors making the full contribution they want to. I feel the time limit should be scrapped.”

Councillor Wallace raised his concerns about the time limit at the Council Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 8th June. Council Leader, Mick Henry, replied that the system would be reviewed once it was up and running.

Care home road too narrow

Following concerns raise by local Lib Dem councillors about the access to the new care home on Whickham Bank, Whickham, officers from the planning department visited the site. It was found that the access road was too narrow and informed the agent for the developer accordingly. As a result, the issue is being taken up with the contractor to ensure the access road conforms to the agreed plans.

Sunniside traffic lights

The long running saga of the Sunniside traffic lights has hit another last minute hitch. Work on installing the lights, first promised three years ago, on the Sunniside Road/Sunniside Front St junction, were due to start in May and were then put back to the start of June.

It now looks like another short delay as utility companies complete the work needed to relay some of their services. The work currently taking place at the junction is being carried out by BT.

“We anticipate this is just a short delay,” said Cllr John McClurey. “Once the work on installing the lights is underway, however, there will be some short term disruption which the engineers are telling us will last 10 weeks.

“If anything changes in the meantime, we’ll let you know.”

Whickham Schools review

The next stage in the review of primary schools in the Whickham area has now been reached. Gateshead Council’s Cabinet formally agreed on the options for closure which will be put out to consultation over the summer.

The proposals include the closure of Marley Hill and Sacred Heart (Byermoor) Schools, both of which have experienced falling pupil numbers and have surplus places.

Since the issue of the possible closures was first raised last year, some parents have transferred their children to Washingwell School. The effect of this has been to help Washingwell’s viability. When Gateshead Council first began considering the future of local primary schools, there was a cloud over Washingwell as it had a reasonable number of surplus places.

The school is not out of the woods yet but the Council Cabinet report, approved on 25th May, stated that if Marley Hill is to close, parents will be able to send their children to Washingwell instead.

However, the Council Cabinet has decided to delay by a year consultation on possible changes to those schools in Whickham village.

Councillor Jonathan Wallace, speaking at the Cabinet meeting on 25th May, warned that this delay would cause difficulties. He pointed out that the proposals for Sunniside would, in effect, send children from the village to a school whose future, whilst more secure than previously, was not yet fully guaranteed.

Councillor Yvonne McNicol said, “Washingwell needs the last elements of uncertainty removed so delaying the decision on schools in Whickham for a year is not welcome.”

Councillor Peter Maughan said, “Earlier in the review process, Gateshead had proposed what is effectively a closure of Front St by merging it with Fellside Primary. The delay of a year simply adds to uncertainty which schools, staff, parents and pupils could do without.”

The consultation over the closure of Marley Hill and Sacred Heart will take place over the summer. We will keep you in touch with progress.

Dog fouling in Swalwell Cemetery

Residents have complained to your local councillors and the police about a small number of inconsiderate dog owners who are letting their dogs run wild without cleaning their dog’s mess up after them, especially in the Swalwell Cemetery.

One resident has told councillors that it is happening on a large scale. As a result, visitors are having to watch where they walk and feel uneasy whilst visiting relatives graves. This has been reported to the council’s enforcement officers who will be patrolling the area.

Swalwell War Memorial restoration

Liberal Democrat Councillors in Swalwell have welcomed the restoration and clean up of Swalwell War Memorial. "This is welcome news for the village," said Cllr Chris Ord.

Swalwell Park play area official opening

The official opening of the new play area in Swalwell Park will take place on Saturday 12th June between 11:00 a.m. to 03:00 pm. There will be lots of fun activities, games, arts and crafts and stalls and all are welcome to come along to the park help to celebrate the opening.

The new play area is the first part of a phased plan to improve Swalwell Park and has been brought about by the work of local residents working together as Swalwell Park Development Group. The group has been working with Gateshead Council, Tyne & Wear Play Association and Swalwell Primary School to improve the play facilities in Swalwell Park.

There will be an opportunity to give your feedback what has been achieved so far and to see further plans to improve the park.

The group will be holding their AGM and are looking for new members. If you are interested in joining the group, please come along.

Photo: Councillors Mary Wallace and Peter Craig at the new play equipment on Swalwell Park.

Go-ahead for Birtley hot food takeaway

Permission has been granted by Gateshead Council for the conversion of 22 Harraton Terrace in Birtley into a hot food takeaway. Plans were also approved to convert the first floor into a flat. The ground floor area had previously been used as a printers. The plans will see a new shop front installed.
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Eslington Park plans agreed

Eslington Park on Bolam St in Teams has been given the go-ahead to install new facilities. Plans for the park were agreed at Gateshead's Planning Committee on 26th May.

The plans involve the demolition of the single storey sports club which will be replaced by a 3G sports pitch, two court sports hall, a cafe 4 five-bed accommodation units and parking and landscaping.

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Rowlands Gill funeral parlour - new shop front

Gateshead Planning Committee has granted planning permission for a new shop front at 32 Station Road, Rowlands Gill. The premises have been taken over for use as a funeral parlour by Co-operative Funeralcare. It was previously used as a shop called Simply Drinks.

Issues were raised at the Planning Committee on 26th May, when the application was approved, about the change of use from a shop to funeral parlour. Officers explained that under current planning laws, the change was a "permitted development" which meant it did not require planning permission. The Committee agreed to approach the new government to ask for a review of planning laws to allow for planning permission to be required for change of use from a shop to funeral parlour in a residential area.

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Broom Lane house plan renewed

Plans to demolish the former Coop building on Broom Lane, Whickham, and to build a bungalow and 2 houses on the site have been renewed by Gateshead's planning committee.

The plans were originally passed in 2007 but not implemented. Under planning laws, an approved application expires after three years if it is not carried out.

The planning application was renewed at the meeting of the Planning Committee held on 26th May 2010.

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Glebe mast plan rejected

Plans by Vodaphone to site a phone mast on Rectory Lane, Whickham, have been rejected by Gateshead's Planning Committee.

The company wanted to install a mast that would have been 19.8 metres high, nearly twice the height of nearby street lights.

Cllr Peter Craig, who led the battle against the plans, said, "Phone companies are required to look at alternatives such as mast sharing. There are already masts on nearby Glebe Sports Ground. Vodaphone should have looked at the possibility of sharing them.

"Instead, Vodaphone chose to apply to put a mast on a very prominent location, close to the Whickham Conservation Zone. I argued that the mast would be an eyesore and could not be screened as it is right next to the road and a busy bus stop.

"I am pleased therefore that the Planning Committee has rejected the plan."

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Enforcement action against Whickham shop

Gateshead Council is to take enforcement action against a shop whose air conditioning units are disturbing neighbouring households.

The shop is at 94 Oakfield Road in Whickham. The enforcement action notice does not require the removal of the units but it will require either that they are switched off or that the are used in a way so that the noise generated does not exceed prescribed limits.
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Winlaton hot food takeaway plan rejected

A plan to convert a former office and shop into a hot food takeaway has been rejected by Gateshead Council's planning committee. The application to convert the premises on Park Avenue, Winlaton, was refused because the building was next door to housing and parking was not suitable. The site is also next to Blaydon Cricket Ground and some opposing the application raised this as a concern.

Cllr Brenda Osborne expressed concerns at the planning meeting on 26th May that there are already a large number of hot food takeaways in the vicinity.

The planning committee unanimously rejected the application.
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Blaydon will be too close to call – Lib Dems

LIBERAL Democrats in Blaydon have said that the election result in the constituency is too close to call between Lib Dems and Labour.

Launching his campaign to become the new MP for Blaydon, Liberal Democrat Neil Bradbury is aiming to build on the strong result the party achieved at the last election to close the gap on Labour’s David Anderson and to move ahead on polling day.

“Liberal Democrats were only 5,000 votes behind Labour last time. Since then we have continued to win council seats from Labour in the constituency. We have outpolled Labour in recent local elections.

“Everyone knows that the Conservatives, whose candidate lives in Tunbridge Wells in Kent, cannot win here. But for the first time in generations, Labour cannot afford to take Blaydon for granted.

“We will be fighting the election calling for a fair deal for Blaydon and to give our area a strong voice in Parliament.”

The votes cast for each party at the last general election in 2005 were:

Labour 20,120 (51.5%)
Lib Dem 14,785 (37.9%)
Conservative 3,129 (8%)
UKIP 1019 (2.6%)

Since then, boundary changes have brought fully into the constituency the Liberal Democrat held ward of Dunston Hill and Whickham East.

Phone mast plan opposed in Whickham

A planning application for a phone mast on a prominent location in Whickham, Gateshead, has sparked opposition from local Liberal Democrat Councillors and campaigners.

The Glebe Sports Ground has been the location for a number of masts in recent years but local Liberal Democrats are saying, “Enough is enough.”

Local Lib Dem Councillor Peter Craig said, “I have objected to the application on the grounds it is visually obtrusive, is close to the Whickham Conservation Zone and other masts in the area could be shared.”

The phone mast, if given planning permission by Gateshead Council’s planning committee, would be built next to Rectory Lane, one of the main roads in Whickham.

The plans can be viewed on-line at www.gateshead.gov.uk. Observations about the planning application can be made in writing to Iain Armstrong, Development Control, Gateshead Civic Centre, Gateshead, NE8 1HH. You will need to quote reference number DC/10/00242/TELFUL.

Photo: left to right Cllr Peter Maughan, Cllr Neil Bradbury, Cllr Peter Craig, Cllr Mary Wallace and Sonya Hawkins)

Residents unhappy with Lobley Hill Bank changes

Residents of Lobley Hill, Festival Park and the top of Dunston Hill in Gateshead are unhappy with traffic changes on Lobley Hill Bank, according to a survey carried out by local Liberal Democrats.

In 2009, Gateshead Council brought in a series of changes on Lobley Hill Bank including traffic lights at the bottom, changes to access from side roads and a longer bus lane.

But residents very quickly contacted local Lib Dem campaigners about growing problems they had, especially driving onto the road from Beechwood Gardens, Oakfield Rd and Whickham Highway.

“We carried out the survey to find out how people were coping with the changes,” said Michael Ruddy from the Liberal Democrats’ Lobley Hill Focus Team.

“We found the overwhelming view of respondents was that they had been inadequately informed of the changes, the changes had made traffic conditions worse, and they did not support the changes.

“Many people commented that they felt the changes had made travel more dangerous and increased the risk of accidents.

“Even amongst those travelling mainly by public transport two thirds of people were strongly opposed to the changes.”

Lib Dem Councillor Frank Hindle is asking the Council’s traffic engineers what analysis they made of the effect of the changes, and what actions they are proposing to take to reduce the congestion and inconvenience that has been created.

Photo: Michael Ruddy and Frank Hindle on Lobley Hill Bank

The system of recycling across Gateshead is about to be changed with the introduction of new wheelie bins.

The new blue bin will take all the material currently put out for recycling. In addition, it will take cardboard and plastic bottles.

A box that goes on the inside of the bin will be used to hold paper. The bins will be emptied fortnightly, on the same cycle as currently in place. The first bins will be provided in May.

Recently, Gateshead had one of the worst recycling rates in the region. Lib Dem run Newcastle has a recycling rate far ahead of the Labour run council on this side of the Tyne.

Photo: Councillor Noel Rippeth with one of the new wheelie bins and paper boxes.

We need a fair budget, not Labour's let-down: Bradbury

Prospective Liberal Democrat MP for Blaydon, Neil Bradbury, has attacked the Budget as a "let-down that will do nothing to create a fair society."

In a message to local residents he said, "Like many other local residents I watched the Chancellor present his Budget wondering whether Labour would come clean on the chaos over which they have presided and the cuts they know they will have to bring in if the nation’s books are to be balanced.

"What we got was a Chancellor who is incapable of coming clean about where spending cuts will have to fall. And the Budget did nothing to make Britain a fairer society.

"People on low and middle incomes pay too much income tax. That’s why Liberal Democrats are campaigning for fair taxes, lifting millions of people out of income tax altogether. We will ensure no one pays tax on the first £10,000 of income.

"Labour however have gone in the opposite direction. In the Budget, the Chancellor froze personal allowances, meaning everyone will see a real increase in their income tax bill.

"The Chancellor didn’t mention this tax increase in his speech to Parliament. We had to read Labour’s small print to find out what they were doing.

"Meanwhile, the recent call by the Labour MP for Blaydon, who I hope to defeat in the general election, for a further increase in VAT will hit family budgets even more."

Photo: Neil Bradbury with Vince Cable on a recent visit to Gateshead. Neil said Labour's Budget would do nothing to create a fairer society.

Closure of Durham Road

Part of the main A167 Durham Road will be closed to traffic on Sunday 28 March to enable a pedestrian footbridge over the road to be dismantled.

A section of the road between Shipcote Lane and the start of the Gateshead flyover will be closed to all traffic in both directions from 6.00 am to enable engineers to dismantle and remove the footbridge at the junction of Durham Road and Whitehall Road.

The metal bridge dates from the 1970s and is being removed because it does not meet the legal requirements for disabled access. Its stepped construction makes it extremely difficult for cyclists and people with pushchairs to use, and almost impossible for wheelchair users. The bridge is being replaced with a light-controlled pedestrian and cycle crossing which will be activated as soon as the bridge has been removed.

A clearly-marked diversion route will be in operation throughout the day, with traffic being directed along Prince Consort Road, Arthur Street and High West Street.

North East’s voice needs to be stronger for local business

A LEADING Liberal Democrat Councillor in Gateshead has called for the North East to have a stronger voice in London to get a better deal for the region and for business.

Dr Jonathan Wallace made his comments to a meeting of the Confederation of British Industry which was holding a meeting for young business people from the North East in the Baltic Art Galley on the Gateshead Quays.

Dr Wallace, Councillor for Whickham South and Sunniside, said it was easy for the North East to be overlooked when major transport investment is decided.

“The problem with our region is that it has too many safe Labour seats,” said Jonathan. “Even in a bad year for Labour, they will win most seats here.

“At the last election in the region, Labour took 28 of the 30 seats in the North East. That effectively means that in Parliamentary representation, our region has been something of a one party state, even though Labour does not command an overwhelming majority of votes.

“Labour can therefore take the region for granted. The Conservatives have only very limited interest in the region because their chances of winning more than a small number of seats here is remote.

“The Labour one party state in the North East has therefore served us badly and both Labour and Conservative governments pay more attention to other regions with more marginal seats.

“We need to turn the safe seats into marginals. That’s why voting reform and fair votes will benefit our area of the country far more than any other. It will put us back on the political map.

“And we need reforms to the House of Lords so that members are elected under a fair votes system and can speak for the whole region.

“This package of change and reform will make politics more relevant to the people of our region and make governments of all colours take note of the North East.”