Residents have their say on Northumberland neighbourhoods
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Northumberland residents have been sharing their views on how they would like to see the county’s neighbourhoods designed.
The Shaping Northumberland project has seen 20 residents from across Northumberland come together to discuss how future neighbourhoods could support thriving communities and environmental protection.
Read the full report at https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/climate-change/engaging-our-communities
Over two weekends, participants met Northumberland County Council planning officers to explore good design and principles they believe should guide the county’s future.
Cllr John Riddle, Cabinet Member for Environment, Rural and Farming at Northumberland County Council said, “As a Council we want to ensure we provide the best services for our communities.
“It is projects such as this that help us understand their views on housing, transport, public spaces, and community projects. The findings in this report will enable us to shape our planning decisions based on real feedback from our residents.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in the project for giving their time and feedback.”
Out of the eight principles within the project, the protecting rural heritage and green spaces received the most enthusiastic support.
Residents also expressed support for walkable neighbourhoods, better public transport, community meeting spaces, and future-proofed infrastructure that integrates renewable energy and nature-positive design.
Participant Lutz Lemmer said: “It was inspiring to see how quickly curiosity turned into highly effective collaboration.
“The process showed the power of community action: people coming together to meaningfully shape decisions that affect their lives.”
The project is being delivered by public participation charity Involve as part of Innovate UK’s Net Zero Living programme.
“We’re proud to have worked with Northumberland County Council and local residents on this project,” said Maddie Gough, Engagement Lead at Involve.
“By involving residents directly in shaping how Northumberland grows and develops, the Council is showing what local leadership can look like and how people’s voices can shape the county’s future."
Please see other ways you can get involved and stay up to date with Council initiatives below.
Have Your Say Northumberland consultation platform
Local Area Community Partnership meetings
Northumberland Net Zero action page
Local environmental networks such as the Northumberland Green Hub
Climate Change Newsletter subscription
