Former Northumberland school to be replaced by 23 new homes
St Mary’s Church of England Middle School in Belford closed in 2018
St Mary’s Church of England Middle School in Belford, Northumberland, closed in 2018 and has stood empty since 2023.
The building is set to be demolished to pave the way for a new housing project which consists of 23 homes ranging from two to three-bedroom houses, including two bungalows.
Although the development falls short of the requirement for affordable housing, the developer pledges £39,000 towards village open spaces and £16,500 to local healthcare services.
Concerns had been raised about the fate of 45 memorial trees on the site but the builder says they will be protected.
Developer Garry Herron emphasised the importance of respecting the site's historical and community ties during Thursday’s Northumberland County Council's North Area Planning Committee meeting.
He said, “From the outset we have recognised this is a site with a history and a strong connection to the local community.”
Acknowledging the significance of the memorial trees, Herron assured they have been integrated into the purchase contract with the intention of protection throughout redevelopment.
Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Belford’s ward councillor and the council’s cabinet member for education, expressed support for the development, noting the positive contributions to the village.
He said, “This is a good development. It ticks all the boxes, it protects the trees and gives money to the village’s open spaces."
The plans faced minimal objection and were unanimously approved by committee members.