Former Bellingham Auction Mart, Bellingham

Previously the site of an agricultural auction mart, the buildings and associated facilities were cleared following closure in 2004. The site has stood vacant for some time and now comprises of overgrown hardstanding. Offers a chance for extensive redevelopment at the heart of the settlement. There is a long running planning history to the site. An outline permission was approved in 2005 (T/20050571). Reserved matters consent was then permitted in 2008 for 65 units, but this lapsed without being taken forward (T/20071304). The site offers an excellent position for a potential residential development given the central location in Bellingham, perhaps incorporating some flatted development into the overall mix at an increased density. The site has been identified for providing affordable homes and/or specialist housing accommodation, necessary in this rural location. Allocated for residential development in the Northumberland Local Plan (adopted March 2022). More recently, an application for construction of 63 units was permitted in 2022 (21/03415/FUL). The scheme comprises of 43 houses and 20 apartments. The latter are C2 use class, but are self-contained units that count towards the housing supply. Site works have now commenced. The scheme is considered deliverable and completion is expected within the next five years.