Hirst Masterplan

The Hirst Masterplan was developed with the community by Ryder Architecture Ltd for Northumberland County Council, Advance Northumberland and Bernicia Homes.

We are working with the community to build on the strengths of the Hirst to address the challenges in the area and make it a better place to live and visit.

To do this Neil Quinn, Hirst Strategic Lead and Gary McGuire, Housing and Communities Programme Manager will be available to capture the thoughts or views of residents and feed these into plans for the area as they continue to develop. They will give everyone who wants to contribute to the plans the opportunity to do so in a way and time that suits members of the community.

Aims of the Plan

• A community approach where everyone that wants to can  contribute & participate in shaping places and spaces. 
• Let’s focus on ‘what is strong, not what is wrong’ . Green spaces that people want to use and look after. 
• Community spaces to meet, be creative, share ideas, skills, advice and support. Streets that are clean, internet access, and the ability to get around easily using public transport. 
• A range of good quality and well managed house types/sizes that are suitable for different needs and good for the planet. 
• A diverse range of shops and things to do for all ages and cultures. 
• A place with opportunities for good physical health and mental health; a place that addresses loneliness. 
• A place where people can hope, learn and achieve their goals through the right skills, training and job opportunities. 
• A neighbourhood that is safe, well used, welcoming to all, and keeps the spirit & pride of Ashington alive. 
• A place that is easy to move around, with safe, enjoyable travel routes for walking and cycling.

These aims have been developed with the community and any comments about the aims are very welcome.

The Hirst Masterplan Executive Summary is available to view online and you can attend any of or upcoming events. If can't make the events or would prefer to meet in private please contact Neil or Gary and they will be happy to arrange this with you.

Current Conversations and Upcoming Events

• Coulson Park Site Public Consultation

  You are invited to share your views on the proposed new affordable rented housing development on the former Coulson Park School site, Alexandra Road, Ashington.
  
  Initial scheme proposals by Bernicia include 57 new homes, comprising of 2 & 3 bedroom bungalows and 2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses.
  
  This proposal is still at the early consultation stage, and the proposal may be subject to further changes as the consultation and design progresses in the coming months, prior to a planning application being submitted later this year.
  
  Please let us have your thoughts on the proposed development which can be viewed at Coulson Park Proposals

• ​Animating Ashington

  Animating Ashington is a programme of events designed to bring colour and excitement to Ashington Town Centre and surrounding areas. Several of the events are based in Hirst, for more details of the programme and to see the schedule of events please visit the Animating Ashington website at Animating Ashington | Walk the Plank

• Drop-in sessions

  Our informal drop in sessions at Hirst Welfare held during April proved popular and we will be holding further events to explain the plan and listen to your ideas. These will be held in Cafe area of Hirst Welfare between 5.00 pm and 7.00 pm on Wednesday 4th and Wednesday 18th June.

  We will be holding an addition session in the ground floor foyer of Ashington Leisure Centre between 4.00 pm and 6.00pm on Wednesday 11th June.
  
  There is no need to book for these events, just turn up and meet Neil and Gary. If these dates and times or venues are unsuitable please contact us and we will agree alternative arrangements with you. Personal appointments are also available by contacting Neil or Gary.           

Contact us

Neil Quinn
Hirst Strategic Lead
Northumberland County Council
County Hall
Morpeth
NE61 2EF

Mobile: 07561 601711
Email:   neil.quinn01@northumberland.gov.uk

Gary McGuire
Hirst Communities and Housing Programme Manager
Northumberland County Council
County Hall
Morpeth
NE61 2EF
 
Mobile: 07561 601843
Email: gary.mcguire@northumberland.gov.uk