The final new station for the Northumberland Line rail scheme has been given the go-ahead. 

Northumberland County Council has recently implemented new traffic calming measures following a serious collision at the A196 North Seaton Road junction with the B1334 Newbiggin Road, which has led to a change in the road layout. The Stage 3 Road Safety Audit identified that there is inadequate visibility of pedestrians and oncoming motorists due to parked vehicles where a new build-out has been installed.

It was recommended that appropriate measures are undertaken to improve visibility at this crossing point by discouraging parking too close to the build-out.

The solution agreed is to introduce a short length of ‘No Waiting at Any Time’ restrictions in the form of double yellow lines on the B1334 Newbiggin Road covering the build-out on the northern side of the road which would prohibit vehicles from parking there and in turn improve visibility for pedestrians and motorists.

Filming for the 44th series Antiques Roadshow, which has been on TV since 1979, took place at Woodhorn Museum last summer and the episode airs this weekend.

Ashington Town Council was pleased to kick-start some high-value capital schemes at their meeting last week. First off the starting line is the redevelopment of Alexandra Road Play Area.  Ashington Town Council is responsible for ten play areas in the town, and of those transferred to the Council, Alexandra Road is the next to benefit from regeneration.

Hirst Ward Cllrs will work with Assets and Facilities Manager, Stephen Humphrey to select a play provider, and to agree a brief for the play space that meets the needs of those living near-by.  It is expected that the scheme will be developed over the next few months, to be ready for the summer.

Allotments are significant source of leisure and provision for many living in Ashington.  With eight sites in total there is always something to do.  The Council is extremely grateful to the Allotment Associations who manage seven of the eight sites on behalf of the Town Council and is working with them to develop a capital programme of works to ensure they are fit for the future.

Several projects were prioritised and agreed at the Council’s meeting last week.  The water system is being replaced at North Seaton Colliery Allotments, similar work is planned for Season Hirst and Woodhorn in the future.  A boundary fence is being replaced at Nursery Park Allotments, and a perimeter fence at North Seaton Colliery.  The fencing work at North Seaton Colliery is a substantial piece of work that continues the metal palisade fencing installed previously at this site.  Finally, some roadway repairs will be carried out at High Market Allotment site, with further plans for repairs at Nursery Park, North Seaton and Woodhorn.

The Council is committed to having capital works carried out according to priority and to using local contractors where possible, always with an emphasis on quality and value for money.  We will continue to plan works over the next few years, ensuring funding is set aside for this purpose.  Ashington Town Council will invest in its assets to ensure their longevity and to enhance the services provided for residents.      

The first ever comprehensive Local Plan covering the entire county has reached a major milestone - after getting the green light from Government. 

This year Ashington WI have collaborated with Ashington Climate Champions, Full Circle Food and Bothal Primary for their annual #showthelove campaign offering.

Northumberland County Council is preparing once again to support residents as two more storms are forecast over the coming days.

Northumberland secondary school announces major new partnership with national housebuilder.

A partnership working to bring transformative change to Ashington is now considering scores of potential projects – thanks to local feedback. Made up of business, public sector and community leaders – the Ashington Town Board is developing an ambitious Investment Plan for the town.

Spring is just around the corner, and although there is cold spell coming, the sunshine prompts an early spring-clean. Ashington Town Council is getting their assets in good order, thanks to our Neighbourhood Services Officer, Mark Air.