The
Hexham Town Plan
2013 - 2018
The
Hexham Town Plan
2013-18
Presented to
Hexham Town Council
1 July 2013
Contents
Acknowledgements
Page 2
Executive Summary and Priorities 2013-14
Page 3
Hexham Today
The Town and its Demographics
Page 6
Strategic Context 2013
Page 9
Context and Process
Why we need a Town Plan
Page 11
Working Together
Page 11
Our Vision for Hexham
Page 16
Theme 1 – The Economy
Page 17
Theme 2 – Transport
Page 20
Theme 3 – Generations
Page 24
Theme 4 – Arts and Heritage
Page 27
Theme 5 – Health & Well-being
Page 32
Theme 6 – Built Environment and Public Realm
Page 37
Implementation, Monitoring and Priorities 2013-14
Page 41
Appendices
1 – Hexham Demographics and other data
Page 44
2 – Sources for Themes’ research
Page 46
3 – Hexham Town Plan survey results 2013
Page 48
4 – Journal of Town Plan activities August 2011 – March 2013
Page 52
Hexham Market Place
1
Acknowledgements
Without the views of an impressively large number of Hexham residents this Town Plan
would not be what it is – a well researched, comprehensive and inclusive plan that
expresses people’s honest and realistic ambitions for their town.
Close on 500 residents, from teenagers to older folk, have attended consultation and
visioning events or been questioned directly in groups about their hopes and expectations
for Hexham. A total of 768 residents completed the Town Plan Survey giving their views on
a range of questions – a vital part of the evidence base for the Plan.
A resilient steering group of volunteers has committed many hours of their expertise and
organisational skills to bring the Plan successfully to and through its final production phase.
The many members of the Plan’s theme groups, and especially their theme leaders, have
devoted time and skill to stimulating and pulling together people’s thoughts and aspirations
for our market town. With much wider involvement by residents and groups in the town, we
in Hexham can now start to make these aspirations a reality.
Finally, without the original support of the Hexham Town Council and the dedication and
energy of Judy Lloyd, who took on the lead role for the Town Plan as a Town Councillor in
2011, the Hexham Town Plan would not be where it is today – vibrant and moving into
implementation.
Hexham Market Place
Common Abbreviations
To assist the reader: the following abbreviations are common used in the body of this plan:
HTC – Hexham Town Council
NCC – Northumberland County Council
HCP – Hexham Community Partnership
TP – Hexham Town Plan 2013-18
HBF – Hexham Business Forum
TSF – Theatre Sans Frontieres
HLF – Heritage Lottery Fund
Abbey PCC – Hexham Abbey Parochial Church Council
tbd – to be determined
2
Executive Summary
Commissioned by the Hexham Town Council in September 2011, this Hexham Town Plan
2013-18 is the fruit of real community engagement, with the views of residents and their
aspirations for their town determining so much of its content. Consultation events, group
interviews, a town-wide internet survey and the intensive work of six Theme groups have
brought so much expertise, local wisdom and ambition to bear on what the plan finally
promises for Hexham.
Hexham stands at a crossroads. Small market towns across the country are experiencing
new challenges – not least of all out-of-town and internet shopping. Our town also feels to be
suffering from a loss of influence, perhaps even influence on its own destiny, as Tynedale
Council was subsumed into Northumberland County Council leaving Northumberland’s
political and administrative strength far away in its county town of Morpeth.
This is, however, a time to look forward, to use the Plan and its ambition for Hexham to
move to action. There is a new Town Council, that already has 10 short-term action points
for Hexham, and a new County Council that already has expressed an interest in working
with the town on one major development (the bus station) and on one perennial problem
(parking finance). At this crossroads, we in Hexham must look to the future with confidence.
Year 1 of the five-year Town Plan contains much scoping of initiatives, seeing what is
entailed and what is feasible. This also makes sound financial sense, giving the Town and
County Councils a period when financial expectations in the Plan are low. More precise
costings for the later commencement of projects (some no doubt in Year 2, 2014-15) can
then be built into councils’ (and other groups’) spending plans for later years.
Town Plan Theme Groups, consisting of volunteers with wide ranges of expertise and
experience, have pulled the broad consultation evidence together to author the Theme
sections, the real meat of the Town Plan. The Economy group underlines the resilience and
independent nature of the town’s economy, stressing that its vibrant future (in these times of
austerity) will need people to pull together: residents deciding to shop locally, businesses
collaborating around a new enterprise hub, tourists being a key to increased commercial
activity, and the Town and its iconic Abbey co-operating in mutual promotion.
Hexham bus station is a key issue in Transport, with a chance to work with the County
Council towards a new multi-purpose town centre amenity. Hexham will have its own Car
Club, thanks to Transition Tynedale and NCC. The Town and the County Council will take
steps to make the town centre a much safer and more enjoyable place for pedestrians, with
children, older people and people with a disability in mind. Older people are the current focus
of the Town Plan’s Generations group, planning for a drop-in centre and new activities to
punctuate Sunday afternoons. In the coming year their planning and consultation focus will
change to include young people.
In a town that has such creative, artistic and musical strengths, approaches to the town
centre should give a corresponding message, and this figures as a priority for the Arts and
Heritage group. The town must grasp this potential, make more opportunities for
performance and exhibition, and bring more life into the town centre.
Sunday markets will bring in more trade and put Hexham on the map for specialist markets.
In a town with such outdoor splendour, new walking- and cycle-ways will connect the town
centre with the banks of the River Tyne, encouraging more residents and visitors to be active
and healthy. The Health and Well-being Group has only just started to look at the potential
around the town centre and the town generally to encourage a healthier life-style.
The town centre is one of Hexham’s assets, conveying a strong sense of tangible heritage
and past, and the Town Plan’s Built Environment group is very aware of this. Its part of the
Town Plan focuses on shop-front design, town centre ‘legibility’, cleanliness and repair, and
3
protection for older buildings which, though not officially ‘listed’, help to communicate
Hexham’s fascinating heritage.
Finally, the Hexham Town Plan would be doing its residents and visitors a disservice if it did
not address improvements to the town’s Market Place. Unique in its historical and visual
impact (just be there and look around to judge), Abbey, Moot Hall, Shambles and wonderful
roof-line, it must no longer be dominated by moving and parked cars. Speed limits and
parking alternatives will play a part in a new vision for the Market Place,
Census data for Hexham reveals an affluent, increasingly professional (and working outside
the town) population, that overall is ageing. Data focusing on the average inevitably conceals
the extremes, and, a food bank, for example, has recently become a necessity in Hexham,
while the Priestpopple ward is the most deprived ward in West Northumberland. Plans to
widen the impact of social regeneration projects must be welcomed and supported by us all.
It can seem surprisingly simple to put a plan into action, especially when the Plan itself is
quite specific about who or which group will lead on the various projects. Key to progress is
the role that named groups will have in checking the progress that is made, eliminating
blockages, and celebrating success. The Town Council, after initiating the Town Plan
process, is central to this and will set an example of commitment and ambition. It will be
aided in this by an energetic Community Partnership, a truly representative Business Forum,
and the desire across the many other town groups and organisations to work together in a
spirit of co-operation in what is best for our town, Hexham.
Suggested priorities for such action in the first year, 2013-14, of the Hexham Town Plan are
set out below.
Hexham Abbey and Market Place
4
Hexham Town Plan
Priorities 2013-14
Priority
Reference
1. Economy Contact: Mike Rowlson
1.1 Your Town Needs You! 1.4.3.i P20
Shop Local
1.2 Enterprise Hub
1.4.5.i P21
Lead
Key Partners
Cost 2013-14
Business
Forum
HBF
Tradespeople
minimal
HCP
1.3
Mutual Promotion of Abbey
1.4.4ii P20
and Town
2. Transport Contact: Mike Parker
2.1 Hexham Bus Station –
2.4.1.i P22
outline plans
2.2 The Car Club
2.4.9.1 P25
Abbey PPCC
HTC, HCP
grant
available
nil
Transition
Tynedale
NCC
2.3
NCC
Sustainable
Transport
HTC
The Pedestrian Experience
Email: [email protected]
NCC
HTC
minimal
2.4.8.i P25
other quick wins P25
3. Generations Contact: Rosemary Theobalds
3.1 Drop-in Centre for older
3.4.1.i P28
people
Email: [email protected]
TP Generations minimal
Hexham
Community
Centre
Older Persons’
Working Group
3.2
Sunday Afternoon Activities - 3.4.1.ii P28
feasibility
4. Arts and Heritage Contact: Judy Lloyd
4.1 Hallgate town entry - scoping 4.4.2.i P31
4.2 Sunday Market - scoping
4.4.4.ii P32
Volunteer Recruitment and
4.4.1.i P31
Organisation
4.4 Arts & Heritage Trails
4.4.2.ii P31
5. Health and Well-being Contact: Ted Liddle
5.1 New link – Interchange to
5.4.1i P35
Tyne Green - feasibility
New link – Interchange to
Haugh Lane - feasibility
5.4.2.i/iiP35
5.3
Cycling Safety – North
Hexham
5.4.3.i P36
TP Generations
minimal
Email: [email protected]
HTC
NCC
minimal
NCC Markets TP Arts &
minimal
Division
Heritage
TP Arts &
HCP, HTC
low, £3k
Heritage
Civic Society
Town Guides
£10,000
Email: [email protected]
NCC
TP Health &
NCC minimal
Sustainable
Well-being
4.3
5.2
grant
available
NCC budget
Transport
NCC
Sustainable
Transport
NCC
Sustainable
Transport
TP Health &
Well-being
NCC minimal
TP Health &
Well-being
NCC, up to
£36k
6. Built Environment Contact: Roger Higgins
Email: [email protected]
6.1 Adopt updated shopfront
6.4.2 P41 NCC
HTC, TP Built
minimal
design guide
Env’
6.2 Article 4 Direction: protect
6.4.1 P42 NCC
HTC, TP Built
minimal
unlisted buildings, and
Env’
develop Neighbourhood Plan
6.3 Responsibilities for Hexham
6.4.2 P42 NCC and
minimal
cleanliness and maintenance
HTC
6.4 Design briefs for sensitive
6.4.3 P42 NCC
HTC to lobby
minimal
developments
for
Economy (4.6), Transport (4.4), Built Environment (4.2)
7.1 Improvements to the Market Place and town HTC to lead
NCC
low in initial
centre traffic circulation and parking –
phase, £3k
scoping, initial phase
Town Plan Management 2013-14
8.1 To enable pump-priming of the Priorities
HTC
TP Steering
£3,000
requiring minimal funding (see above)
Group
5
Hexham Today
Hexham – the town and its demographics
Hexham is a small market town with a population of around 13,100 people. It has grown by
around 500 inhabitants in the last ten years, a little more than Northumberland as a whole
(2.8%). Compared with Northumberland’s other market towns it is substantially bigger than
Alnwick, slightly smaller than Berwick, and around 1000 inhabitants less than Morpeth.
The town lies 23 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne, the regional capital of the north east,
from which it is easily and quickly accessible by road and rail. Hexham overlooks the
beautiful Tyne Valley and lies within the Hadrian’s Wall Corridor, between two important
areas of wild and high-value landscape and ecology: the Northumberland National Park and
the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The easy links with Newcastle, the
high quality of the landscape in which it sits, the range of amenities to hand and the wide
range of cultural and leisure opportunities make Hexham a highly desirable location to live.
House prices here are some of the highest in the north east and yet the town includes the
most deprived ward in West Northumberland. The issue of social housing supply is a
significant one for the town.
Hexham has always been a gathering point - a centre of religious pilgrimage, a royal market
and an ecclesiastical and secular centre of local government. The town’s long tradition as
the administrative centre of West Tynedale continued until the abolition of Tynedale District
Council in 2009. The removal of the area’s Magistrates’ courts in 2011 has also contributed
to this major change. The market town identity continues, however. In 2005 Hexham was
voted England’s favourite market town and won the Britain in Bloom Small Town category. In
2008 it was judged to have best Farmers Market in the north and in 2012 won the national
best small outdoor market award for its long-standing Tuesday market.
Services
Hexham’s role as the old administrative centre for Tynedale means that it is well endowed
with services and facilities. These include Hexham Hospital, with onsite GP practices, Mental
Health Clinic and a brand new holistic therapy centre opposite.
Hexham has six well performing state schools of different sizes and ethos, covering all age
ranges to 18+ and also an outreach base for part of Northumberland College, offering a
small range of vocational training courses.
The town has a good range of sports and leisure facilities including the Wentworth Leisure
Centre, with new ten-pin bowling alley, athletics track and a multi million pound new
swimming pool opened in 2008. There are golf courses, football, cricket and rowing facilities
and a great National Hunt race course which attracts visitors from far afield. We have a
strong and enviable infrastructure. However these services depend on a combination of
public and private sector finance and high levels of usage to make them viable. The
challenge is how to keep and improve these services and make them as accessible as
possible to all.
Employment and Income
Economically, Hexham and its environs support a range of employment.
Egger UK employs around 450 people directly, and is the second biggest employer in the
county, though many of its workers come from outside the immediate area. The plant also
supports well over a thousand additional jobs in the wider area relating to forestry and
6
woodchip production and it is thought that the company’s operations are worth over £180
million to the Northumberland economy.
Hexham remains a key economic hub within the West of Northumberland and contains a
wide range of businesses including knowledge-intensive businesses, creative industries,
retail, leisure, tourism, construction and manufacturing sectors. A few are larger businesses
which play a significant role both directly and indirectly but most are small operations
employing less than 10 people. This is a pattern replicated in many parts of the county
including wage levels associated with these smaller enterprises below the national average.
There has always been a big discrepancy between wages available to residents employed in
local businesses and the far greater pay levels generally available in Newcastle. In Tynedale
this discrepancy reached an all time high in 2011. The gap is now beginning to narrow but,
even allowing for the added costs of commuting to Tyneside, the issue of closing the gap
between the kinds of job opportunities available to residents here and in Newcastle is an
issue for the town.
The effects of rising fuel costs are starting to alter people’s ability to travel out of the area.
Part of our efforts to make our town more self sufficient and resilient for the future must
mean trying to make Hexham and its environs attractive for quality businesses to locate and
stay here, providing a wide range of better paid local jobs.
Until we do, and notwithstanding the cost of fuel or public transport, very many Hexham
residents will seek employment out of area, in the Tyneside conurbation, which can be easily
accessed. This is particularly relevant to the highly educated, graduate qualified background
of many Hexham residents who are very well represented in some of the top earning
occupation areas – managers, directors, senior officials, professions and associate
professionals. These groups account for 56% of those working in the West ward; 44% in the
East and 37% in Central.
7
However, Hexham’s more general situation is certainly not all rosy. The situation of many
families in the East Ward is masked in overall ward-based data by the wide disparities
existing between very affluent corridors to the west of the ward and the large area at the
more easterly section of the town.
In contrast the information available for the Central with Acomb Ward shows an
economically very active community, many of whom are living in social rented
accommodation on their own and working in and around the town. It is likely that, of the
51.4% in the 16-64 age bracket, many are members of working families in middle and lower
wage industrial, engineering and service occupations paying out for child minding as well as
the mortgage or rent in a climate of stagnant or falling wages.
The national trend of ageing population is more pronounced in Northumberland than
elsewhere in the north east. In Hexham, owing to the large number of in-coming professional
people wishing to retire here, the figure is higher still. As long as Hexham remains a place
attractive to older wealthy people it seems likely that this trend will continue
There are, however, already larger numbers of older people who are not financially
comfortable, who will need care and suitable accommodation in later years. As a community,
helping people to stay active longer is one way of maintaining quality of life and
independence for older residents. Identifying those in danger of social isolation and trying to
provide supported opportunities to help them regain confidence is crucial. It is also in the
general interests of the town to help older people enjoy a good quality life for longer.
Given the high and growing rates of youth un- and under-employment alongside the
expense of housing in Hexham, unless urgent steps are taken to provide affordable houses,
the mix of our resident base is likely to become increasingly unbalanced. Overall county
statistics of new housing build are disappointing in comparison with regional and national
averages. There is also a shortage of affordable rented accommodation, the demand for
which has risen substantially in the region as a whole. Despite residents’ wish to keep
housing largely as it is, Hexham needs to look now to the longer term implications of this
imbalance of younger and older, and the likely forced exodus of very many of its young
people who have so much to offer the town, unless we can provide the means for them to
live and work here.
Market Street, Independent shops
Old Grammar School, Hallgate
8
Hexham’s Strategic Context in 2013
Hexham is facing an identity crisis.
Its beautiful location in the Tyne Valley, convenience of access to Newcastle, endowment
with a range of important on the doorstep services and facilities; vibrant cultural and
community life, and generally high-quality built and green space town centre environment
make it somewhere extremely attractive to live. This is especially true for a more ‘traditional’
and ‘functional’ type of resident - predominantly of middle age and above. Consequently its
resident number is expanding and its wealth levels remarkably buoyant in some areas.
However, its own function as a living, thriving place of business is less clear and it has
significant pockets of social deprivation which are often masked by its apparent affluence.
Hexham has a well preserved and varied Market Place centre with strong reminders at every
turn of its notable historic past. The Abbey, Gaol, Moot Hall and other town centre gems are
a huge strength along with other pleasant 17-19th century reminders of the town’s
prosperous artisan past.
Yet Hexham can no longer be considered a major centre of commerce and trade. The pull
towards NewcastleGateshead, facilitated by a highly effective public transport system and
roads, is just too strong. This is compounded by the fact that large numbers of our more
affluent residents are employed there or elsewhere in the Tyneside conurbation, and are
therefore able to shop conveniently outside Hexham, where they believe there is more
range, variety and, (they think), better value for money.
This puts our market town centre at risk. As businesses bow under the combined pressures
of high business rates and rents, the smaller spend of less affluent residents, the effect of
our out-of-centre supermarkets and the decrease in numbers of visitors and shoppers from
the hinterland (in part reflecting higher fuel costs), we see the high quality historic market
town appeal deteriorating and in danger of compromising the longer-term future and appeal
of the town.
The risk is increased by Hexham’s experience since the demise of Tynedale District Council.
This has not been a place in which our new unitary Council has shown much interest or
made much investment. Instead there has been a growing trend - in the current draft Core
Strategy looking well set to continue - of pouring investment into the economy and
infrastructure of the south east of the county. From its position on the north westerly corner
of this, Morpeth, home of the unitary Council, looks well positioned to gain advantage but, on
present forecasts, it appears the only market town in Northumberland with an obviously
secure and vibrant future.
Having said this, the draft Core Strategy - the spatial planning tool for the future of the
county over the next 25 years, clearly recognises its duty to preserve services in other parts
of the county and, in that context, Hexham still has a strong justification for being designated
one of the 11 ‘main towns’ of Northumberland, with consequent policy. However, Hexham’s
role as Tyne Valley lead community should no longer be considered self-evident.
The latest preferred option of the County Council as stated in the February draft of its Core
Strategy shows Hexham detached from its naturally linked valley communities of Haydon
Bridge and Haltwhistle. Instead it is attached to a ‘Central’ delivery area along with Morpeth,
(to which it will always be junior partner), and Prudhoe. This should give some cause for
concern. It is essential that, while Hexham looks inward on itself and the future of the town
centre, it keeps a good look-out for both the opportunities and threats relevant to its wider
strategic location in the west Northumberland Tyne Valley and Hadrian’s Wall Corridor.
Developments in tourism in this part of the county, and in particular the creation of the Sill,
could be very positive, or, if Hexham is not more proactive, it could see the town increasingly
marginalised albeit as a quality, small urban destination.
9
The county’s proposed spatial strategy continues to see an important role for Hexham as a
centre of business and manufacturing. Apart from the obvious economic, if not aesthetic
benefits of having Egger located here, we have seen some exciting developments in recent
times in light engineering, design and eco-friendly technologies. However, the generally
unpromising statistics regarding wage levels of Tynedale businesses as compared with
those elsewhere, may be a barrier to attracting the best talent in these fields to Hexham .
Nevertheless, in view of the longer-term influence of climate change we need to think local in
employment as well as in retail and build as resilient and self-sustaining a base as we can.
Our traders can help here by expanding the local distinctiveness and quality of their offer so
our residents consciously decide to support them rather than opt for internet buying or chainstore shopping and going elsewhere.
If we wish Hexham to build a strong new identity for itself in the next five years it must also
be, surely, around its tourism and visitor potential. Next year will see the opening of the
Abbey’s long awaited Visitor Centre, telling the important Christian heritage story of a hugely
important building which has attracted pilgrims and visitors over the last 1300 years. There is
a massive opportunity for the town to support this and add the impact of the heritage
experience to its other distinctive offerings. This means making the most of all the historic
buildings and spaces we have, and maintaining and interpreting them better. It also means
providing better hospitality and welcome. Hexham is ideally placed strategically at the
gateway to Hadrian’s Wall, the National Park and the North Pennine AONB and close to
other attractions such as Wallington Hall, to be the start of fascinating day-trips.
At the present time, the town is ill-prepared to do this. Although we have a very large number
of cafes, and several good restaurants, they have to be open at the time visitors are likely to
want to come here. Furthermore, they need to have a full and varied offer, to deliver
outstanding quality drawing on locally-sourced food, and to be able to signpost those who
would like accommodation to hotels and in-town Bed and Breakfast destinations at prices to
suit all pockets. The closure of two town centre hotels makes this harder than it has been in
the past. It means the opportunities will by-pass us unless we urgently develop a better
strategy for tourism, marketing and cross-marketing with other destinations, and for
outstanding food and hospitality.
The use and function of the Market Place and our beautiful Parks are also central to this
development. We have a sheltered and historic town centre space for happenings of all
kinds. When the weather is good - and there must clearly be a question mark over the
vagaries of the impact of climate change - it is an attractive place to be, and could be more
so with better signage, attractive lighting, less motor traffic and the cultivation of a more
pedestrian-friendly ethos. With a greater number of regular town centre events, involving
music, performance, arts and food, and things for children to do, Hexham could be known as
a cultural market place of great vitality. The same is true of the Parks and in the Bandstand
we have a sheltered elegant space which deserves to have regular weekend performances
to add to the pleasantness of the green space.
The threat to this may be the weather’s unpredictability, poor publicity and a lack of response
from residents who are so obviously capable of providing guiding, interpretation and
performance of the highest order. The Town Plan process has helped to bring numbers of
them into a more engaged interest and commitment to the town’s future. Others are waiting
in the wings. It will be the task of our people, our many vibrant town organisations and our
town leaders –Town Council and, already hugely active Community Partnership to work with
commitment to shape and realise this vision. It’s time for talking to end and doing to begin.
10
Town Plan – Its Context and Process
Why we need a Town Plan for Hexham
The Hexham Town Plan process began in September 2011, at the request of Hexham Town
Council, who allocated £5000 to fund it .The most important reason for having a Plan is to
give the Town Council a programme of projects and actions for the benefit of the town and
its residents and thus to give the town’s elected leaders a focus of activity for the next five
years.
2011 was the time when the new government’s ‘Big Society’ agenda was being widely
discussed and a new Localism Bill debated. Both encourage opportunities for residents to
become more actively involved in planning and shaping the places where they live. These
principles are reflected clearly in Northumberland County Council’s Sustainable Community
Strategy (2011-15)
A Hexham Town Plan has other potential benefits. Such plans are highly recommended
under the national Quality Council scheme for parish and town councils (currently being
revised). It is very likely that having a town plan will be essential in the future for any local
council wishing to expand the scope of its activities, using powers available under the
Localism Act.
Having an active Plan and demonstrating the Town Council’s partnership with its residents
and town organisations, will be a key element in the Town Council’s development into a
dynamic, community-facing body.
We hope that the election of both a new County and Town Council will provide the
opportunity, irrespective of party political affiliations, for creating a stronger and more
collaborative partnership of government, town bodies and residents, committed to achieving
the best for the town’s wider benefit, and active in communicating Hexham’s needs and
ambitions.
In 2011 Hexham was still coming to terms with the abolition of Tynedale District Council, with
all the administrative and financial support which it provided the town until its abolition in
2009. Tynedale Council, based in Hexham, also provided an easy channel of communication
with other Tynedale county councillors and county council officers based here and at
Morpeth.
The shock of being so far away from the county council’s headquarters at a time of deep
local government funding and staffing cuts suggested it was essential to promote an urgent
debate about where Hexham saw itself going in the next five years. We have been asking,
and must continue to seek residents’ ideas and involvement to turn this weakness of loss of
local government support into an opportunity to promote more creative, community-based
solutions to many of our needs.
Working Together : What we have done so far
From August -November 2011, six volunteer Town Councillors researched community plans.
The principle throughout was that residents be invited and encouraged to join actively in the
work as soon as possible and a launch weekend was planned to start the process.
The work would involve a cumulative gathering and exploration of residents’ views through
various engagement activities. The first was a widely publicised launch weekend in
November 2011. It stretched over three days, had three elements and took place in the town
centre as follows:
11
·
An event in the Queen’s Hall foyer aimed to get a snapshot of those things
which the community particularly valued; those issues and other things they felt
detracted from the town’s wellbeing and health and one good idea to make Hexham a
better place.
·
A Market Place survey where residents were asked to respond to general
statements ranging across a wide area of town life and to add their own comments if
they wished. The topics had been agreed within the town councillor working group.
·
On the third day, an open forum in the Community Centre, to review the results
of the two previous days’ feedback and to explore four underlying town plan aims
which the councillor working group had adopted from Ludlow, a flourishing market
town in many ways similar to Hexham, which had recently completed its first town
plan.
Consultation
From the interest generated by these events a steering group of resident volunteers was
recruited.
Those who came forward ranged from people with a specific professional experience of topic
areas, which they fed into themed work groups; to those who just wanted to help more
generally and contribute their knowledge of being a resident here. We had politically
interested individuals and those with no political interest; people with a particular interest in
the environmental agenda and members of various town organisations. All worked together
in a spirit of constructive harmony; many gave very generous amounts of their time and
expertise. Some dropped out because of competing pressures for their time, but new
members came forward to replace them.
12
24 people, including 5 town councillors, formed the steering group. Councillor Judy Lloyd
agreed to act as chair. The pattern thereafter was for the full steering group to meet every
two months to review progress; to plan town-wide engagement activities; to receive reports
and verbal updates from working groups and to monitor the overall process.
A committee was appointed and a constitution adopted. Individuals were invited to join one
of six working groups on a relevant theme (see later). Each group chose its own leader and
agreed its own timetable of meetings; on average every two to three weeks. They started by
sharing their perceptions of their area of town life and reading background reports produced
over the last ten years to familiarise themselves with the context of previous work.
They were asked to plan their own theme engagement activities and to bear in mind 4
underlying aims underpinning the work, (adopted from Ludlow, a town with similarities to
Hexham, which had recently completed its first 5-year plan). These were:
1. to enable local people to express their ambitions, needs and priorities;
2. to co-ordinate the actions of local councils, statutory, public, voluntary, community
and private organisations;
3. to focus these actions so that they meet community needs and ambitions within
local resources;
4. to secure funding for Hexham to sustain the projects, facilities and community
services we identify.
The engagement activities were informative and varied. They not only addressed aim 1, but
began to explore and model aims 3 and 4, as in the following examples:
A litter-picking weekend funded from the budget which helped tidy up the town. The tools are
now available for community use.
A mini Arts showcase event combining visual arts, crafts, singing, drama and other
music making, making use of public spaces and shop and workshop bases. Views of
both artists and the general public on the events and ideas for co - promoting artists, arts
and town businesses were collected. (Aims 1, 2 and 3)
£9,000 from Heritage Lottery fund was secured in a joint application from Woodhorn
Archives and the Town Plan Arts and Heritage group to fund a community archive
project on Hexham people: 1688-1838. This is running now until the end of the year
with scope for involvement of town groups and arts practitioners; (Aims 2 and 4)
The Steering Group held three well publicised public meetings:
‘Hexham: Your Town; your Vision in the Queen’s Hall’, chaired by Mike Worthington
of Hexham Debates and focusing mainly on infrastructure and economic issues;
(June 2012)
Hexham: What will the People make of it?, held at the Community Centre with more
focus on community needs and how to promote joined up working between different
resident ages and groups; (October 2012)
The Annual Town Meeting, at the Community Centre (March 2013).
The first and third of these were very well attended (90+ and 120). The second,
unfortunately coinciding with one of the very few glorious Sunday afternoons of the year,
attracted only 40 people. At the Annual Town Meeting, people had to be turned away for lack
of space in the sizeable hall, showing an impressive growth in interest and community
concern since the first open forum, just over a year earlier, when around two dozen residents
had met. Valuable feedback was obtained from all these meetings and used, along with
feedback collected by the working groups on particular themes, to discuss and finalise 40
questions to put to the public in a final resident survey. This was well publicised, available
online and paper, and ran for 6 weeks from late December to early February 2012-13.
13
The responses of the 768 residents who contributed have been used by the steering and
working groups to draw up a plan of outline projects for the next 5 years. Those for the first
two years have been given more attention and it is recognised that initially some will require
more scoping and investigation before visible change will be seen. Others, however, are
‘quick wins’ which can be achieved within the town by the liaison and cooperation of a small
number of organisations willing to work constructively together and to seek out funding
sources from the increasing number available to focused partnerships of town council,
Community Partnership, and town groups.
We still have a list of interested people who came to some of the earlier meetings and it will
be a priority, now, as we move forward to action, to contact them and see how they might be
included in the body of active residents willing to give some time and ideas to keep the town
we love in good heart for the future.
Over the last 18 months residents and councillors in the Town Plan working groups and
consultation process have given us grounds for optimism and celebration. What we have
found is a sense of common cause, where people with a range of different political and
social backgrounds, and a range of interests and knowledge, have been willing to work
together, to help create our Town Plan.
This has defied the gloomy predictions of some of our town pundits at the outset of the
process. Hexham has not always been a town which has been good at getting people
working together. But there seems an increasing acceptance that this is what we will need to
do to keep this as the place we want to live, and a belief that, building on our own local
knowledge and willingness to do our bit, we can make it even more successful.
Jubilee Celebrations 2012
14
Our Vision for Hexham
Hexham will build on its great strengths of people, heritage and
outdoor space and will provide an environment to develop new
strengths, ensuring a vibrant and robust future and maximising
the quality of life for all who live in, work in or visit the town.
For residents generally Hexham will build further on its proven reputation as a good place to
live and work, with gaps in what it offers being identified and addressed in a collaborative
and mutually supportive environment.
In terms of its economy, Hexham will be self-sustaining and resilient, able to meet locally the
needs of its residents through its well-maintained and well-known facilities and services,
encouraging enterprise and the development of new strengths.
The improved town centre and Market Place will attract more people to the town, be a safer,
less congested and more relaxing environment and be easier for all to access, especially for
older people and people with a disability.
Hexham will retain and strengthen the high quality of its built environment while protecting
both the green and open spaces within and around the town. New design of any scale will
contribute to local character and distinctiveness and will enhance the experience of the town
for residents, workers and visitors.
Hexham will be a healthier place to live and move around in. The way people and goods
move in and out and around the town will be reshaped, and ‘active travel’, walking and
cycling, will be promoted through a range of policies and revised road and path schemes.
With collaboration, communication and celebration at its heart, Hexham will build on its
greatest strengths, the people and the place, to inspire a wide range of communal arts and
heritage projects, outdoor and public space opportunities for artists, and the imaginative use
of built heritage assets. This will maximise visitor appeal for the town as well as improve the
sense of civic well-being and pride among its residents.
Hexham’s residents will work in a more collaborative and energetic way to maximise the
benefits for the town and secure its strong future. Its leaders will communicate a clear and
pressing sense of the town’s needs and ambitions and work proactively with county and
regional partners to meet them.
Relevant to the future of Hexham also is the vision of he Hexham Community Partnership, a
body which continues to support the aims of the Hexham Town Plan: ‘Hexham will be an
increasingly vibrant, enterprising and adaptable market town for residents, business and
visitors’.
15
Theme 1: The Economy in Hexham
1.1. Our Vision for the Economy in Hexham
•
•
•
A self-sustaining, self-reliant & resilient economy – Hexham will satisfy the needs of its
residents and businesses, thus minimising the need to travel elsewhere and minimising
reliance on large external organisations;
An economy which maximises Hexham’s existing strengths – allowing Hexham’s wealth
of facilities to be well maintained, well-known and well-used;
An environment to encourage enterprise – Hexham’s infrastructure and administration
will encourage appropriate enterprise.
1.2. The Current Context
Hexham provides a wide range of goods, services and employment and acts as a local
centre for a large surrounding area. Although the town has not been immune to the effects of
the recession in recent years, the economy remains relatively strong, with relatively low
levels of unemployment. Hexham’s economy is unusually diverse, ranging from a significant
manufacturing and industrial presence, to a range of independent retailers and artisans.
The town enjoys a fantastic range of heritage, parks, arts, events and festivals. These are
frequently identified as great highlights that not only attract visitors but also provide strong
reasons for why people choose to live and work in the town.
Hexham has a popular and active town centre which provides a good range of shops and
services for residents and visitors alike. However, it is apparent that the town centre has
come under significant pressure in the last few years with an appreciable number of shop
closures. Hexham’s centre has fared better than most and it is clear that with appropriate
action the town centre could and should remain a key asset.
The migration from Tynedale to Northumberland County Council has had a number of
impacts on the town: loss of council jobs that were previously based in Hexham, empty
council buildings left unused or underused, but perhaps most importantly, the town is now far
more remote from regional services and governance, with the associated loss of visibility
and influence.
Although the loss of Tynedale Council has caused a number of issues for the economy in
the town, it does also present a number of opportunities:
•
•
Old council buildings, as well as other unused buildings and existing brownfield sites
offer ample development opportunity in both the town centre and the immediate
surrounding area without resorting to green field sites;
There is significant scope for the Town Council and other town organisations to provide
strong leadership to take action and make decisions in a timely fashion at a local level.
Two additional areas are also highlighted that provide significant opportunities to further
strengthen Hexham’s economy:
•
•
The town’s heritage, town centre facilities and events can and do attract visitors.
However, there is a strong belief that we could encourage a greater number of visitors to
enjoy what Hexham has to offer;
The recession has generally resulted in fewer employment opportunities within large and
medium sized companies. However, Hexham’s residents embody a wide range of skills
and knowledge and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. With the correct facilities and support,
this could potentially lead to the creation of a wide range of new and diverse businesses.
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1.3 The Economy in Public Consultations & the Town Plan
Survey
The economic vision and opportunities have been developed through public consultation
events (see page 15) as well as surveys and discussions with the Hexham Business Forum
(HBF) and other business owners.
The economy questions in the Town Plan Survey were chosen to assess support for key
aspects of the economic vision. Residents were asked to express their level of agreement on
a 4-point scale. All four statements received strong agreement:• The town needs to provide more employment and can do this without building on green
fields around the town;
• It is important to me that I can buy my shopping and services from local people and local
businesses;
• Hexham should try to attract a greater number of visitors who will spend money in the
town;
• Hexham needs more visitor accommodation of all types across the full price range.
• Two further questions were included in different formats:
• A question about the overall size of the town; to which the response was biased towards
remaining the same size but with an appreciable minority suggesting that some growth
was necessary;
A question about the type of sectors where people would like to see more employment. The
top five sectors are: 1) tourism and hospitality, 2) business start-ups, 3) retail, 4) digital
technologies and 5) manufacturing.
1.4. Resulting Areas for Action 2013 to 2018
Using the survey responses and the economic vision, the following six key areas for action
were identified. The focus is on new actions, there are already a large number of on-going
projects and activities that are not discussed here. It is critical that any review of activities
should not just consider those listed here but must also consider the overall economic vision
and status to judge whether new requirements have emerged.
1.4.1 Develop a Neighbourhood-Led Plan
A statutory local framework of planning rules specific to Hexham that can both protect
existing features in the town and encourage appropriate development. The neighbourhoodled plan will be implemented through the Built Environment theme (see page 42) but could
address key economic issues such as: use of empty space above town centre shops; a
more rigorous quota system for shop usage in the primary retail area to ensure diversity;
limiting retail development to inside the primary shopping area to protect the long term future
of the town centre; encouraging light industry, service industry and office development on
existing brownfield sites and in unused buildings; encouraging an increased range of visitor
accommodation.
1.4.2 Strengthen and Improve Co-ordination between Town
Organisations
Clearer structures and mandates will be defined for each of the main town organisations
such that strong local leadership is provided, with efficient use of resources, including
volunteer skills. This activity is primarily described in the Implementation and Monitoring
section (page 44) but its importance to the local economy cannot be overstated.
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1.4.3 “Your Town Needs You!” – A campaign aimed at residents and
businesses
In the current economic climate it is unrealistic to expect central, and local government
organisations to provide significant additional funding. As such, residents and businesses
should look to what we can do to help and improve Hexham so that it continues to be a
successful town. The campaign will have two main strands: the first will promote use of our
local businesses and facilities and the second will encourage civic pride, volunteering and
participation in town activities and organisations.
1.4.3.i Project: Your Town Needs You! - Shop Local
Lead: Currently being discussed with the HBF; Key Partners: Hexham Community
Partnership (HCP); Funding requirements: Low/Nominal; Funding sources: Potentially
funded through existing business and facilities advertising budgets; Proposed timescale:
Initiate 2013 and expected to be on-going for the medium term; Desired outcome: Increased
trade, employment and a strengthened town centre.
1.4.3.ii Project: Your Town Needs You! – What can you do?
Lead: HCP; Key Partners: TBD; Funding requirements: Low; Funding sources: TBD;
Proposed timescale: Initiate 2014 and review on a 6 monthly basis; Desired outcome:
Increased engagement for residents & businesses with the general town well-being and
mobilisation of resource to address a variety of town issues.
1.4.4 Increase Promotion of Hexham as a Visitor Destination
There is undoubtedly potential to increase the number of visitors to Hexham and the
economic contribution that they make. It is also clear that there are some infrastructural
reasons for the current low number of visitors (e.g. the lack of accommodation and the
relatively unattractive approaches to the town (see P31)). The new Abbey Visitor Centre, a
substantial and ambitious development by Hexham Abbey supported by the Heritage Lottery
Fund, is forecast to attract more visitors. Mutual promotion of Town and Abbey is now the
aim. Greater general promotion of the town by existing visitor attractions and key
organisations working together more closely could result in a significant increase in the
awareness of what Hexham has to offer. During the Town Plan consultation and preparation
phase, a visitor website was launched by Hexham Community Partnership and it is
anticipated that this will provide the primary vehicle for promotion.
1.4.4.i Project: visithexham.net
Lead: Hexham Tourism Group; Key Partners: HCP; Funding requirements: Low; Funding
sources: Targeting self-funding through advertising revenue; Proposed timescale: On-going;
Desired outcome: Increased visitor numbers and associated trade.
1.4.4.ii Project: Mutual Promotion of Abbey and Town
Lead: Hexham Abbey PCC and Heritage Trustees; Key Partners: HTC, NCC, HCP, the
Business Forum, and Heritage Lottery Fund; Funding requirements: none locally; Funding
sources: Heritage Lottery Fund, including to promote and market; Proposed timescale: 2013
to initiate promotion of the Abbey Project, as this becomes reality 2014; Desired outcome:
mutual promotion of Abbey and Town, increased visitor numbers.
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1.4.4.iii Project: Develop a welcome/accommodation body, i.e. Tourist
Association
Facilitation of visitor network. Developing and maintaining links with regional and national
bodies. Offering training in good practice etc.
Lead: HCP; Partners: Northumberland Tourism, Tourist Information Centre; Funding
requirements: contribution to management costs; Timescale; 2014-16.
1.4.4.iv Project: Review Options for Increased Accommodation
Lead: TBD; Key Partners: tbd; Funding requirements: None/nominal; Funding sources: N/A;
Proposed timescale: tbd; Desired outcome: Ideas to increase accommodation.
1.4.5 Enterprise and Employment
A facility to encourage high quality long term job creation and job protection for Hexham and
the surrounding area. The facility would aid small start-up and existing businesses by
providing shared facilities and resources at reasonable costs and by providing a focal point
for local businesses with associated networking benefits. At the time of writing a bidding
process is underway for grant funding from the North East Rural Growth Network (NERGN).
HCP, the Town Plan team and HBF have provided support to a number of bids and
depending on the successful bid would expect to be involved in the further development of
the Hub. For some residents, long term unemployment is a problem creating isolation and
lack of self esteem. A recently formed partnership between Hexham Community Partnership,
No 28 Derwent Road and other area agencies has begun to address this issue by providing
a supportive and relaxed atmosphere in which to discuss and receive advice.
1.4.5.i Project: Enterprise Hub
Lead: tbd; Key Partners: HBF & HCP; Funding requirements: Moderate to high depending
on the bid; Funding sources: NERGN grant; Proposed timescale: Initiate 2013, complete
spring 2014; Desired outcome: Increased employment through small businesses.
1.4.5.ii Project: Job Club
Lead: HCP/28 Derwent Road; Other partners: Job Centre Plus and West Northumberland
Children’s Centre; Funding requirements: minimal (HCP manage this already).
1.4.6 Town Centre Access and Flow for Pedestrians, Cyclists & Vehicles
This topic is discussed in the Transport section of the Town Plan (see page 24) but it is
worth emphasising here that good access and flow around the town centre for all modes of
transport is critical to the economic success of the town centre.
1.5. The Economy: Priorities 2013-14
Highest priority actions for 2013-14 are:
1.5.1 Your Town Needs You! - Shop Local (see 1.4.3.i) being discussed with HBF
1.5.2 Enterprise Hub and Job Club (see 1.4.5.i, 1.4.5.ii) Key Partners: HBF & HCP
1.5.3 Mutual Promotion of Abbey and Town (see 1.4.4.ii) by Abbey PCC
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Theme 2: Transport in Hexham
2.1. Our Vision for Transport in Hexham
Transport is a key ingredient in stimulating the economy of Hexham town centre. It plays a
major role in making it easier for people to visit and shop (and use cafes and restaurants) in
the town centre. In our vision for transport in Hexham:
• the town centre will be a more attractive, less polluted and congested location;
• improved, easier access will be provided to Hexham town centre and local services via
shuttle bus, foot and cycle;
• people will be able to walk in Hexham’s pedestrian streets and its historic Market Place
with freedom and without the encumbrance of fumes, noise and visual disturbance from
heavy traffic.
2.2. The Current Context
As with many market towns while greater car ownership has enabled people to come
regularly to Hexham from further afield, it has contributed to an increase in town centre
traffic. However, the advent of a large number of supermarkets – particularly Tesco – at the
lower level of town has not only changed shopping patterns, but also changed parking and
traffic patterns. The ability to park free of charge in the Tesco car park as opposed to parking
in the other car parks both at the lower level and in the town centre creates an imbalance,
which obviously favours Tesco but in turn causes regular congestion at the entrance to
Tesco and at the roundabout immediately outside the Tesco entrance.
The recent NCC proposal to make all town centre parking free will on the one hand right this
imbalance but will make the overall traffic levels in the town centre and rationing space by
time - and hence encouraging turnover - more difficult.
While local bus services are reasonably reliable and comfortable, they are not frequent and
cover only a limited number of corridors into the market town. There is minimal specific
provision for cyclists (cycle lanes and cycle parking) and while there are two pedestrianised
streets in the town centre there are some difficult crossing points on other streets. The
quality and state of repair of some footways and kerbs causes problems for everyone in
inclement weather and problems for older people and people with a disability at all times of
the year.
Hexham is reasonably well served by the Carlisle-Newcastle train service and long-distance
buses. These levels need to be retained
2.3. Transport in Public Consultations and the Town Plan
Survey
In the various public meetings held, there was a strong consensus in favour of keeping the
bus station in its current location, but also improving its facilities and aesthetics as well as
creating a more inclusive pedestrian link to the Marks and Spencer retail area.
In the Town Plan Survey a majority of respondents were reluctant to accept increased
parking charges, even to fund a free shuttle bus from the lower level of town. Opinion was
evenly split regarding reduced speed limits in the immediate town centre.
The survey demonstrated that the re-allocation of car parking spaces in the market place to
neighbouring Beaumont and Market Streets would not deter the vast majority of shoppers.
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2.4. Transport: Resulting Areas for Action 2013 to 2018
2.4.1 An upgraded and improved Bus Station.
Work with Northumberland County Council and potential developers is required to realise a
scheme for the redevelopment of the bus station and its immediate vicinity. The project will
include a direct pedestrian link from Marks & Spencer to the back of the bus station, and
remodelling the pickup, drop-off and waiting areas to make them much more attractive to
passengers and operationally more efficient.
2.4.1.i Project: Bus Station Redevelopment
Lead: NCC; Key Partners: HTC, bus operating companies, developers; Funding
requirements: high; Funding sources: NCC and developers; Proposed timescale: commence
2013-14; Desired Outcome: improved provision for bus users and operators; improved
connection between Marks & Spencer retail area and town centre and improved built
environment on main town thoroughfare.
2.4.2 Parking Charges.
To introduce varied charges with, at most times of day, lower charges in car parks at low
level and higher charges in central Hexham. In order to have a greater turnover of shoppers,
the maximum time for parking in some central streets should be reduced. Tesco to be
persuaded to revert to 3 hour parking in their car park. Free parking in the Town centre after
4.30pm Monday to Saturday and after 2pm on Sundays.
2.4.2.i Project: Parking Charges Policy
Lead: HTC in dialogue with NCC; Key Partners: Hexham Business Forum, Tesco; Funding
requirements: low; Funding sources: charges can generate their own revenue stream;
Proposed timescale: short/medium term; Desired Outcome: regular turnover of cars in Town
centre, increased use of rest of town car parks as bases for Hexham shops and services.
2.4.3 Community operated bus service
Provide a free frequent shuttle bus (funded by Town centre car-parking charges) to link key
locations – Wentworth, Tesco, Rail station, Hospital, Priestpopple, Beaumont Street, and the
Market Place (and a large free or low-cost park and ride north of the station/river) –
operating with a high frequency, 9-5, Monday to Saturday. (This could be done as a
community operated service - small vehicles, no cash, volunteer drivers and maintainers)
2.4.3.i Project: Community Bus Service
Lead: NCC/HTC/HCP (tbd); Key Partners: Town Council, Hexham Business Forum, HCP;
Funding requirements: medium initial capital investment; Funding sources: hypothecated
from parking charges; Proposed timescale: medium term; Desired Outcome: improved links
between bottom and top of town (especially for the less mobile), reduced town centre
congestion.
2.4.4 A refurbished Market Place
Make the Market Place into shared space, prioritising pedestrian movement, allowing access
for deliveries and collections and ensuring “access only” for local residents and to Beales
and Prospect House car parks. Provide exclusive disabled parking bays and secure bike
parking in St Mary’s Wynd. Allow the shuttle bus to traverse and use Hallstile Bank
(otherwise closed).
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2.4.4.i Project: Improve Market Place
Lead: NCC/HTC; Key Partners: Hexham Business Forum, Civic Society, HCP; Funding
requirements: high; Funding sources: NCC or tbd; Proposed timescale: medium term;
Desired Outcome: a more attractive and accessible market place, reduced congestion,
improved environment.
2.4.5 Traffic management
New traffic management scheme to create wider footways in certain central streets and
allow more short-term parking in others and enable safe cycling in the town centre and along
neighbouring streets and radial roads. Reduce speeds in the town centre to a maximum of
20mph.
2.4.5.i Project: Improve Town Centre Traffic Management
Lead: NCC with HTC; Key Partners: Hexham Business Forum, HCP; Funding requirements:
medium/high; Funding sources: tbc; Proposed timescale: medium term; Desired Outcome:
slower town centre traffic, safer walking and cycling in town centre.
2.4.6 Railway Station
Make entrance more user-friendly by re-designing pedestrian routes to and from the town
centre using the arches under Railway Street and providing a safer, direct crossing of
Railway Street (Note that this needs to be accomplished in sync with the plans for the Goods
Yard Development).
2.4.6.i Project: Rail Station Access
Lead: Network Rail /NCC (tbc); Key Partners: Network Rail, Waitrose, HTC; Funding
requirements: medium; Funding sources: tbc; Proposed timescale: medium term; Desired
Outcome: improved pedestrian routes between town and the station.
2.4.7 Cycling and Disability Scooter Access
Review how people cycle into and around Hexham and the quality of that experience. Key
routes into and round the town centre to be prioritised, including to/from the interchange in
all directions; over Tyne Bridge to Acomb; eastwards to Corbridge; and traffic-free link with
Tyne Green East (see H&WB Theme for initial details, Areas for Action 2.4.1 to 2.4.3, PX).
2.4.7.i Project: Cycling and Disability Access
Lead: NCC/Cycle Tynedale (tbc); Key Partners: Cycling Tynedale, HTC; Funding
requirements: medium; Funding sources: tbc; Proposed timescale: medium term; Desired
Outcome: safe, traffic free cycle links around Hexham.
2.4.8 Walking.
Review how people of all ages and older people and people with disabilities move around
Hexham on foot and the quality of that experience. Key desire routes to be identified and
prioritised. The Sustainable Transport Department of NCC is implementing a project to
improve facilities for pedestrians in key town centres, including Hexham. They are working
with associations for disabled people to ensure that this project makes due reference to the
mobility and safety needs of people with a disability. The Town Council should actively
support this project.
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2.4.8.i Project: Support for the NCC plan to improve pedestrian facilities
in Hexham Town Centre.
Lead: HTC; Key Partners: NCC and associations for people with disabilities, including visual
impairments, in the town; Funding requirements: medium, within existing NCC budget;
Funding source: NCC; Proposed timescale: initial stages in 2013; Desired outcome:
improved safety and mobility for people with a disability, including those with partial sight.
2.4.9 Car Club
Create a car club for Hexham that offers access to a car when needed for hourly or longer
periods. The car club will use environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles.
2.4.9.i Project: Car Club
Lead: Transition Tynedale; Key Partners: NCC, Co Wheels; Funding requirements: low;
Funding sources: NCC (secured); Proposed timescale: Start 2013; Desired Outcome:
reduce car ownership and pressure on residential area street parking, improve travel options
for non car owners, increase awareness of hybrid vehicles.
2.5. Transport: Priorities 2013-14
The priority is to ensure that a comprehensive transport strategy is endorsed by both the
HTC and NCC; the strategy will bring more people into Hexham without increasing traffic
congestion, provide better safety to walk, cycle and access the town centre by public
transport and provide a more pleasant town centre.
The projects with the greatest potential for implementation in 2013-14 are:
2.5.1 The bus station (see Project 2.4.1.i) by NCC
2.5.2 The Car club (see Project 2.4.9.i) by Transition Tynedale
2.5.3 Improving Pedestrian Experience (see Project 2.4.8.i) and Walking and Cycling
Links (see Project 2.4.7.i and H&WB Priorities 1-4) by NCC Sustainable Transport
Other quick-win projects that can be developed relatively easily are:
• improved signage - both for the pedestrian and motorist;
• the introduction of a 20 mph speed limit in the town centre;
• production of a map of the town highlighting car parks and parking areas in the town
(with capacities and charges).
Hexham station
23
Theme 3: Generations
3.1. Our Vision for the Generations in Hexham
•
•
•
•
Currently appreciated by residents as a good place to live, work, and bring up children,
Hexham will build on this and rise yet further in residents’ estimation;
In Hexham all generations will work together for mutual benefit. In particular, the
experience for young people, families with young children, and older people will be
improved as elements of this Town Plan come together;
Hexham will research gaps in what the town has to offer all groups, and seek to address
those gaps, both through the Town Plan working group and in conjunction with projects
and organisations in the town having similar aims;
In Hexham groups and organisations will work with an awareness and appreciation of
what other groups are doing and offer support and encouragement without conflict,
rivalry, or duplication.
3.2. The Current Context
The Generations theme of the Town Plan starts from a base of considerable strengths:
Many consultations have taken place with relevant recommendations, for example the
Market Town Welcome document, the Wellbeing Survey, and the Hexham Community
Partnership’s Action Plan. The latter organisation is becoming increasingly well known
amongst residents in the town and is committed to supporting the Town Plan. Whilst much
activity within the town is visitor and tourist focussed, the Town Plan is about enhancing the
quality of life for residents whilst recognising the importance of visitors and tourists in
strengthening the economy of the town. A strong economy and a wide variety of shops
benefit residents also.
There is considerable co-operation between the large number of community and voluntary
sector organisations which makes the introduction of new ideas very easy. The Hexham
churches work together effectively.
The level of interest of residents, as demonstrated by the numbers who took time to fill in the
Survey and who attended two “visioning” afternoons and the Town Meeting, bodes well for
the implementation of the Town Plan.
A new Town Council has been elected with fresh energy, new ideas, and new members.
But there are weaknesses too:
Working with school-age young people is challenging, particularly 16 -18 year olds owing to
the fact that they often move away to continue their education, and these years are
demanding for young people due to the timing of many types of examination.
We did not succeed in identifying a group who would represent young families apart from the
Women at N° 28, the Hexham East Regeneration Project.
The uncertainty of financial support from the Town Council and the fact that grant-making
Trusts have less to give away in this period of austerity inevitably makes planning in a
people-focussed context more difficult.
24
Threats to the work of this Theme exist too:
Already some funding bids have been unsuccessful.
The Town Plan may not be a priority for the recently elected Town Council, or they may
prefer to plough their own furrow and ignore the work of the past two years.
The general public may lose interest if they do not see improvements happening quickly.
But there are great opportunities for the development of the Generations theme:
• to work with the schools and their School Councils;
• to support the work of the Hexham East Regeneration Project which reaches out to the
middle group (or: families with young children or: all three target groups through projects
at N° 28;
• to build on the existing outreach to Older People by the Community Centre;
• to work towards a second Regeneration Project based in central Hexham;
• to provide opportunities for inter-generational contact and the passing on of skills,
memories, joint entertainments etc;
• to harness the considerable goodwill which exists in the town within the churches,
Rotary, etc;
• to share in the ambition of the Hexham Abbey Project which will offer residents and
visitors alike new opportunities to learn more about Hexham’s history and to be inspired
by the zeal and vision of our forebears;
• to maintain contact with the Older People’s Forum, part of Ageing Well, which is run by
the Northumbria Health Care Trust;
• to work with some of the other Theme groups within the Town Plan for mutual benefit,
i.e. the Health and Well-being group, the Arts and Heritage group, and the Transport
group.
3.3. Generations in Public Consultations and the Town Plan
Survey
It is important to note that in recent surveys residents of Hexham have strongly reflected
their appreciation of the town and their lives here. The June 2011 Central Tynedale
Community Forum survey, for example, included the question: does living here (in Hexham)
provide a supportive social network? Three quarters of respondents answered ‘yes’ to this
question, and only 5% said ‘no’. In the same survey, quite a few respondents expressed, in
their additional comments, their pleasure at the quality of life they enjoy in Hexham and very
few said they would leave for any but employment or family reasons.
As part of the work towards producing a community-led plan a number of consultations were
carried out in Hexham between November 2011 and February 2013, the details of which
appear earlier in this document.
Specific to this theme were visits to three Lunch Clubs for Older Persons, a social group with
speakers for retired gentlemen held weekly, and a Friday evening Social Event held weekly,
taking survey forms with us and holding informal conversations with the people (which they
preferred). These visits in conjunction with the Town Plan Survey in Autumn 2012 provided
us with evidence of older people’s priorities. We also attended the Older Persons Forum
facilitated by the Northumberland Health Care Trust which normally meets monthly.
We consulted with the School Councils of our two Middle Schools, and we plan a similar
consultation with the School Council of Queen Elizabeth High School.
We received feedback from the Women at No 28 group who are women with young families,
mainly living on low incomes.
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3.4. Generations Theme; Resulting Areas for Action 2013 to
2018
3.4.1.i Project: Drop in Centre for Older Persons
Lead: the Community Centre; Key Partners: WRVS and older person participants; Funding
requirements: £5k over three years; Funding Sources: Kellet Foundation and the Community
Foundation; Proposed timescale: To commence September 2013 – ongoing; Desired
Outcome: less isolation, a weekly lunch and afternoon to look forward to, a better informed
group of people as a result of input by outside speakers. Computer confidence.
3.4.1.ii Project: Sunday afternoon activities for Older Persons
Lead: Older Person’s Working Group of TP; Key Partners: Forum Cinema, Town Plan Arts
and Heritage group, Queen’s Hall, Churches, Contact the Elderly; Funding requirements:
£2k over two years. Funding Sources: local e.g. Rotary, Lions, Soroptomists, Round Table
etc; Proposed timescale: November 2013 – ongoing; Desired Outcome: to fulfil the need
identified in the Town Plan Survey, that older people find Sundays particularly lonely.
3.4.1.iii Project: Cycle Circuit/Route for Families
Lead: Older Person’s Working Group in conjunction with TP Heath and Well-being group.
Key Partners: these two groups and North Country Leisure with the TP Arts and Heritage
Group pending the successful purchase of Duke’s House Wood using Heritage Lottery
Funding; Funding requirements: unknown; Funding Sources: NCC or private company;
Proposed timescale: Autumn 2014 – ongoing; Desired Outcome: a healthy and safe activity
for families, meeting a need expressed in the Middle School consultations
3.4.1.iv Project: Improved Retail opportunity for Young People, i.e.
pocket money clothes, and shoes suitable for Older People
Lead: Initially the Older Person’s Working Group of TP; Key Partners: Hexham Business
Forum; Funding Requirements: minimal because this would have to be a business
opportunity; Funding Sources: Business interested in this proposal; Proposed timescale:
Spring 2015 – ongoing; Desired Outcome: to meet needs identified in TP Survey.
3.5. Theme Priorities 2013-2014
3.5.1 Drop in Centre
(see Project 3.4.1.i above) by Community Centre: Conversations have already taken place
with the Community Centre Board and Staff, and WRVS. Refurbishment of the Stan Batey
Hall is needed prior to commencement.
3.5.2. Sunday afternoon activities
(see Project 3.4.1.ii above) by Older Person’s Working Group. Feasibility Study to assess
interest from both potential beneficiaries and potential providers, and to assess likely costs.
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Theme 4: Arts and Heritage in Hexham
4.1. Our Vision for Arts and Heritage in Hexham
•
•
•
•
Playing to our greatest strengths - the people and the place: resident involvement in
arts and heritage will be increased through interesting communal projects that celebrate
the place and secure the upkeep and imaginative use of Hexham’s built and other
heritage assets;
Making the Arts more visible, more often: initiatives will be pursued that encourage
outdoor and public space opportunities for artists;
Arts promoting Hexham, Hexham promoting artists: collaborations which maximise
the economic benefit for both the town and artists will be developed;
Communication, Co-ordination, Collaboration, Celebration will be at the heart of
cultural initiatives to maximise benefit for the town and improve residents’ sense of civic
well-being.
4.2. The Current Context
For a small market town Hexham is extremely rich in Arts and Heritage assets. These
include two high quality central town venues - the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre and the Forum
Cinema together offering regular varied programmes of professional theatre, dance, music
and film. It is the home of Theatre Sans Frontieres, creators of nationally acclaimed world
theatre, currently working on a project to develop a new, rehearsal, outreach and
performance venue in the Station Goods Yard. A huge range of locally based amateur arts
clubs and societies exist in Hexham, and there is an Arts Forum convened through the HCP.
There are music, writing, dance, and art tuition; performance opportunities through Core
Music and many other groups, and local schools have strong traditions in visual and
performing arts. The arts are available to all ages and to residents with disabilities.
Hexham has high quality annual arts-based festivals organised by local people (Hexham
Abbey Festival, the Book Festival, the Gathering, Selefest and Dance Festival). More
popular cultural events of widespread appeal include Hexham Community Partnership’s
Spook Night, Christmas Market and Eating Festival and the legendary Round Table Bonfire.
Hexham is also home to many professional artists and is a local hub for its arts hinterland.
There is gallery space at the Queen’s Hall and Forum, three sizeable, on-street commercial
art galleries, and a number of smaller, tucked away ones. There are high quality craftspeople
with a town centre presence. More opportunities for artists to show and sell their work
without too much expense are however necessary, especially as many would-be customers
see the arts as less important in times of economic austerity.
Making Arts accessible to economically challenged residents must be an essential
consideration of any Town Plan arts initiative at this time. Un- and under-employment
causes isolation, exclusion and loss of self-esteem. Affordable arts experiences - for
participants and audiences alike - must be maintained. The perceptions that the arts are an
exclusive, professional class activity are already being broken down within the informal
setting of the regeneration project at N° 28 Derwent Road. Similar initiatives should be
available in other parts of town.
If the arts are the creative core of the town, providing the ‘performance potential’, our
heritage buildings provide the auditorium and backdrop, and our colourful town history the
script! Our buildings and public spaces, including wonderful town centre parks and the
riverside, bear witness to a story stretching over more than a millennium. To have so many
gems spread out so close to the town centre is a cultural strength of the highest order. We
must preserve, maintain, celebrate it and never take it for granted.
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This historic built environment is linked to Hexham’s former identity as a Christian centre of
pilgrimage and hospitality, an administrative and legal centre for the district and a place of
commerce and exchange. We need now urgently to re-evaluate the potential of this enviable
legacy in our town centre and preserve, enhance and interpret it better, turning it to our
advantage as part of a visitor offer of massive potential. Alongside the eagerly awaited
Abbey Visitor Centre, buildings such as the Old Grammar School and Hexham House have
strategic importance as part of this and the capacity to tell the story and earn money for the
town.
The local history and heritage organisations in our town assist here, but too much may be
left to our museum officer, a small number of activists, committee members, Hexham’s
excellent Town Guides and a handful of volunteers. The Local History Society and NADFAS;
(Fine Art Society), have very large memberships. U3A also has many members who care
about culture. We need to transform passive appreciation into active roles as cultural
volunteers and ambassadors; interpreting, and celebrating our history and heritage to
funders, residents and visitors. With the arts and heritage talent here we should be eminently
fit to bring our many fascinating stories told in the town’s stones and mortar, records and
chronicles to life.
The Arts and Heritage group organised a mini pilot for a ‘Arts On and Off the Streets’
weekend in the town centre. This allowed performing and visual artists and craftspeople from
Hexham and the surrounding settlements to demonstrate their art and engage informally
with the public in open spaces and shops. The potential benefits of liaising with retailers and
using professional artists to contribute visibly to creating ‘buzz’ while demonstrating and
raising their own profile were welcomed. It has already sown seeds in 2013 within both the
Community Partnership Art Trail weekend coinciding with Town Twinning and during the
recent Hexham Design week.
One of the Plan’s underlying aims has been to encourage town groups to become more
active in securing funding for town projects. To model this, a grant of £9000 was obtained
from Heritage Lottery Fund for a community archive project. It envisages scope for artistic
interpretation too. -‘Hexham’s Heydays, 1688-1838’ is to run this year.
4.3. Arts and Heritage in Public Consultation and the Town
Plan Survey
At the Town Plan Launch weekend in November 2011, 77% of those doing the Market Place
survey felt that arts were very important to the town. Many residents highlighted cultural
assets of various kinds as those things which they liked most about the town.
After preparatory work by a new Arts and Heritage group, an initial vision was presented for
comment and discussion at the ‘Your Town, Your Vision’ meeting of around 90 residents in
Hexham Library in June 2012. The picture was further broadened during the ‘Hexham - what
will the people make of it?’ meeting in October.
The Town Plan Survey raised a number of Arts and Heritage issues, often overlapping with
other topic areas, from which the following responses emerged:
• Hexham should improve its weekend offer with regular arts, crafts, antiques and book
markets. (very strong support);
• There should be an annual weekend festival of art, craft, music drama and writing by
people from Hexham and nearby villages. (very strong support);
• A key pedestrian gateway into town, Hallgate, should be made more attractive as an arts
and heritage zone. (strong support);
• To make the town centre livelier, more spaces (including empty and under-used
buildings) should be given over to local artists and musicians to display their work and
perform. (strong support);
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•
•
•
A heritage mural and public art trail around the town showing scenes from Hexham’s
history will attract more visitors into more areas of the town. (moderate support);
Our Town and County Councils must use all planning powers, old and new, to protect
the town’s historic character (very strong support);
We will need to recruit and provide much help for resident volunteers who come forward
to work on town plan projects. (strong support).
4.4. Resulting Areas For Action 2013-18
We now look to our town council in particular, as commissioners of the town plan work, and
to our Community Partnership, to help the community carry forward the ideas.
4.4.1 Build capacity to engage and inspire visitors and residents with
Hexham’s creative and cultural wealth
To animate our historic town, capture the imagination of visitors and create a stronger
identity for residents, far more residents must be convinced of the worth and the rewards of
getting involved.
4.4.1.i Project: Arts and Heritage Animating Hexham (Ahah)
The archive project, ‘Hexham’s Heydays 1688-1838’ runs until Christmas 2013 with aim of
increasing residents’ interest in local history and heritage. In association with this, a suitable
form of social enterprise to organise cultural volunteering, mentoring and funding
applications is needed. Lead: Hexham Town Plan Arts and Heritage Group; Partners: TBD;
Funding requirements: low; Funding sources: TBD; Proposed timescale: 2013 to spring
2014; Outcome: fit for purpose delivery mechanism and a supportive group of 12 confident
activist volunteers.
4.4.2 Valuing our heritage landscape and story and bringing it alive
We must preserve and regenerate heritage-rich areas and buildings to create a more
impressive, engaging and inspiring aesthetic experience for residents and visitors.
4.4.2.i Project: Hallgate regeneration
To redevelop sensitively the heritage townscape of Hallgate Bank and make it a high quality,
visitor friendly and culturally colourful gateway to the town centre, Researching also the
feasibility of a small colourful buggy to transport pedestrians from rail station via Wentworth
car park to Beales. Lead: tbd; Key Partners: County Council, Town Council, with North of
England Civic Trust, HCP, Woodhorn Trust, Beales, TSF, Hallgate businesses; Funding
requirements: high (e.g. £2million); Funding Sources: County Council, Grants including
Heritage Lottery; Timescale: 2013 -18, 2013 -14 research feasibility, funding and bid to HLF;
Outcome: a well signposted, accessible, inspiring and animated gateway to the town centre.
4.4.2.ii Project: Heritage and Art Trails.
To help guide visitor movement into interesting areas of town beyond the centre. Lead: tbd;
Partners: might include Newcastle University, Hexham’s Arts professionals, Local History
Society, Schools, Hexham Town Guides, Civic Society; Funding requirements: medium, with
flexible elements, £10,000-£100,000; Proposed timescale: initiate new heritage leaflets in
2014 on short term basis, then mural and public art consultation 2014-17; Outcome:
colourful referencing to historic story, better circulation of visitors.
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4.4.3 Collaborate and build social capital through Arts and Heritage
initiatives
To explore working in a more informed, unified and effective way, linking different arts,
heritage and community groups, to combine skills and knowledge creatively.
4.4.3.i Food Project - Hexham’s Historic Cooks
To develop a) food offer which reinterprets for today recipes pioneered by Hannah Glasse,
one of England’s most important 18th century food writers, b) community kitchen to explore
her rival Ann Cook’s philosophy of cooking well for less; fresh, local ingredients; the social
value of food. Lead: tbd; Partners tbd (e.g. Farmers Market, Transition Tynedale, Youth
Initiative, schools, ISOS, No 28, and possibly other strategic partners); Proposed timescale
2013-16.
4.4.3.ii Project: Annual Arts Festival
To explore feasibility of an annual town arts festival weekend of high visibility events,
professional and amateur, covering different art forms. Lead: tbd; Partners: tbd; Proposed
timescale: start research 2014.
4.4.4 Use Artists to promote the town and the town to promote Artists
To link arts projects more directly to commercial ventures, encouraging collaborations
between artists, professional and amateur, and other town interests, recognising the need to
maximise benefit for all.
4.4.4.i Project: Arts On and Off the Street
A flexible model using the presence and talents of visual and performing artists to enhance
an event or public space. Lead: tbd; Key partners: HCP, Business Forum and others;
Funding requirements: low, i.e. £5,000; Proposed timescale: 2013-already adopted by HCP
as part of Town Twinning Art Trail and by Hexham Design Week, also ongoing in relation to
Empty Shops (animating empty retail space with art); Timescale: 2013 and ongoing.
4.4.4.ii Project: Sunday Market Place
To introduce a cycle of 4-weekly Sunday markets – arts and crafts/second hand
books/antiques/foodie running from 11.30am to 4.30pm, supported with street performance,
requiring four organisational teams, marquees, and a coordinating committee. Lead: tbd;
Key Partners: Business Forum, NCC markets team, Farmers’ Market, Car Boot Sale;
Funding requirements: medium, ca £50,000; Funding sources: grants; Timescale: autumn
2013-15 planning and initiating Desired outcome: Hexham be regular, popular Sunday
market destination.
4.4.4.iii Project: Young Arts Forum - careers in the Arts
In response to issues raised at the Queen’s Hall open consultation event and the Arts
Symposium in October 2012, a Young Arts Forum has recently been established at the
Forum Cinema to offer an opportunity for young people to develop their aspirations and
ideas for a career in the arts. Lead: This is led by a young employee at the Forum Cinema;
Partners: HCP management; Funding requirements: minimal; Funding source: external
funding available as project develops.
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4.5. Priorities for 2013-14 (Communicate, celebrate and
collaborate)
4.5.1 Hallgate scoping exercise (see 4.4.2.i above) by HTC and NCC.
4.5.2 Sunday Market scoping exercise (see 4.4.4.ii above) by NCC Markets Division in
collaboration with Hexham antiques, books, arts and food interests.
4.5.3 Volunteer recruitment and organisation (see 4.4.1.i above) by TP Arts and
Heritage Group, with active support of HTC / HCP.
4.5.4 Arts and Heritage Trails (see 4.4.2.ii above) by e.g. Civic Society, Town Guides.
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Theme 5: Health & Well-being
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines health and well-being as a state of complete
physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
5.1. Our Vision for Health and Well-being (HWB) in Hexham
Hexham will be a healthy place in which to live and move around.
• Infrastructure improvements in and around Hexham will improve quality of life and
therefore the general health and sense of well-being for Hexham residents and visitors in
terms of ‘active travel’, i.e. walking and cycling for all purposes
• HWB considerations will underpin all policies to support WHO and The National Institute
of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommendations
• The Transport group’s recommendations will be supported to improve and re-shape the
way people and goods move in and out and around Hexham
5.2. The Current Context
Hexham has a mix of health levels but it would be wrong to assume the proportion with
higher income is healthier than those on a lower income. Both groups will have common lifestyle health issues but there will also be different issues. Hexham probably mirrors the
regional profile of health: Source: Office for National Statistics
• People aged 65 + in the North East in 2009 made up 17.1 % of the population, compared
with 17.7 % for the under-16s. This compares with averages for the UK of 16.4 and 18.7
respectively
• In the North East men aged 65 in 2007–09 could expect to live another 17 years and
women 19.5 years. This compares with 17.8 and 20.4 years in the UK as a whole
• The unemployment rate in the North East stood at 10.2 % in the fourth quarter of 2010,
higher than the UK rate of 7.9 %
• The proportion of children living in workless households in the second quarter of 2010
was higher in the North East (18.8 %) than the England average (15.9 %)
• In April 2010, the median gross weekly earnings for full-time employees (adult rates) who
were resident in the North East was £443, lower than the UK median of £499
Hexham is a market town with a fine medieval core and a wonderful abbey dating back to
674 AD. Developed on two levels, the township has been incrementally shaped and formed
by its historical roots and the passage of time which is why the infrastructure we have today
was not designed for the transport and healthy living pressures of today.
Appropriate and effective changes are long overdue to what, over time, has gradually
become accepted as the norm if Hexham is to retain its charm and claim to be one of the
finest and healthiest places to live and work in England. Infrastructure changes should be
implemented to match structural and funding opportunities.
5.3. Health & Well-being in Public Consultations and the Town
Plan Survey
East Hexham is a relatively deprived community but with a good network of support
agencies and an on-going regeneration partnership with a local base.
Local priorities for improving community life (community consultation 2012) have been
identified as:
• Improve community health
• Encourage healthy eating
• Provide play facilities for young people (under 11’s) in central parts of the estate
• Improve the physical appearance of the estate and street scene
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•
Provide shops on the estate that residents can walk to
Central Tynedale Community Forum Well-being Survey 2011 identified the following:
• Living (in Tynedale) provides an incentive to be active, get out and about and stay
healthy. When it is needed, healthcare in our area definitely lives up to most people’s
expectations
• People are appreciative of both the natural and built environments and especially the
former but a more attractive and people-friendly market place would please the majority
of respondents
• While community safety is applauded by most people, there are still majority views that a
blanket 20mph speed limit in residential and shopping zones would be of great benefit
5.4. Health & Well-being: Areas for Action 2013 to 2018
Targeted areas for action have been chosen for location, suppressed and stated demand
and perceived level of support and achievability. These are all in lower Hexham and
motivated by the need to improve walking and cycling in this part of Hexham. We
acknowledge that these actions address only some of the health and well being topics
outlined above, further work is needed in these other areas
5.4.1 Walking and cycling: new link from Tyne Mills IE to Tyne Green
To create safe pedestrian and cycling access to Tyne Green west and east and a short loop
route; this will provide a route to the existing underpass from Tyne Mills Industrial Estate (IE)
and through this to Tyne Green west as well as a potential continuation from the underpass
to the riverside viewpoint and then via NCC-owned land to connect back to an internal estate
road.
5.4.1.i Project: New link from Tyne Mills IE to Tyne Green
Lead: HTC; Key
Partners: NCC Sustainable Transport; Estimated cost: £10,000 (option to split into two
phases); Funding sources: NCC, HTC, Tyne Rivers Trust; Timescale: scoping 2013;
Outcome: partly meets an often stated demand for safer pedestrian and cycle access to
Tyne Green from Hexham.
5.4.2 Walking and cycling: new traffic-free route from Rail Interchange
To provide a direct, safe and traffic-separated link route from the rail Interchange to Haugh
Lane Industrial Estate (IE) (i) passing under existing vacant bridge to the end of the bunker
site and (ii) continuing by means of a new free-standing bridge inside the existing wall to the
entrance to Tyne Green and Tyne Mills Industrial Estate IE.
5.4.2.i Project: phase (i) above
Lead: NCC Sustainable Transport; Key Partners: HTC, Network Rail, Bunker site owner,
Tesco; Estimated cost: £40,000; Funding sources: NCC, planning gain; Timescale: medium
term; Desired outcome: new safe, traffic-free route from Interchange via the bunker site to
Haugh Lane IE.
5.4.2.ii Project: phase (ii) above
Lead: NCC Sustainable Transport; Key Partners: HTC, Network Rail, Agricultural Merchants;
Estimated cost: £40,000; sources: NCC, other tbc; Proposed timescale: long term; Desired
outcome: new safe, traffic-separated route from Interchange into Tyne Mills Industrial Estate,
Tyne Green and to Hexham Tyne Bridge.
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5.4.3 Safer cycling across Hexham Tyne Bridge and on Ferry Road
A very significant development as this is a major cycling route into and out of Hexham; a
cycle to work route; part of National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 72 and Hadrian’s
Cycleway, River Tyne(s) Source to Sea Cycle Route and the Grand Tour of Northumberland
Cycle Route – both to be promoted in 2013-14 for cycle tourism.
5.4.3.i Project: Hexham Tyne Bridge to Rotary Way
This will have four parts: (a) remove the centre white line over the Hexham Tyne Bridge but
leave the arrows; add an Advisory Cycle Lane in both directions (which vehicles can legally
straddle when empty) – see drawing.
(b) Create a safe ‘jug handle’ entry to Ferry Road from Rotary Way to enable cyclists to
cross safely onto the central reservation – the right turn is a dangerous manoeuvre when
traffic is heavy.
(c) Construct new path on existing land and a slip onto Ferry Road utilising a section of
unused tapering verge.
(d) On Ferry Road, add an Advisory Cycle Lane in both directions (which vehicles can legally
straddle when empty) to the Egger main gate and remove centre white line throughout (50%
already missing) – see drawing.
Lead: NCC Sustainable Transport; Key Partners: Egger; Estimated cost: (a) £3,000 (b)
£15,000 (c) £15,000 (d) £3,000; Funding sources: NCC, Local Transport Plan, Egger;
Timescale: 2014; Outcome: significant increase in safety and convenience for cyclists at a
key point in the Hexham road and potential cycle network.
5.5. Health and Well-being: Priorities 2013-14
5.1 New link, Interchange to Tyne Green West and East (see 5.4.1.i above):
scoping and feasibility, by NCC Sustainable Transport
5.2 New link Interchange to Haugh Lane IE (see 5.4.2.i/ii above): scoping and
feasibility, by NCC.
5.3 Cycling safety, Hexham Tyne Bridge, Rotary Way and Ferry Road
(see 5.4.3.i above): feasibility, by NCC Sustainable Transport
5.6. Illustrations
The illustrations below show the new routes and paths proposed by the Hexham Health and
Well-being project group with support from the Hexham Transport Group.
These proposals have been unanimously and enthusiastically received at all community
meetings where they have been presented and are supported by a range of community
groups.
Why cyclists would benefit from Advisory Cycle Lanes at these locations.
34
Illustrations of the
walking and cycling
routes proposed in this
Health and Well-being
theme.
Not re-painting the faded
centre white line on Ferry
Road is integral to this
scheme
The lower drawing doesn’t show the Advisory Cycle Lanes added to Hexham Tyne Bridge as
shown on the upper drawing.
35
The image on the left illustrates how an advisory cycle lane can highlight the presence of cyclists – in this case
only on the uphill direction side of the road as proposed at Corbridge.
The image on the right shows how a large vehicle straddles the lane when there are no cyclists in the lane.
(Ted Liddle)
The Health and Wellbeing section of the Town Plan was partially taken up within the
Generations theme. Since the bulk of the work was done, there have been new projects
already beginning to develop which reflect important issues either raised during the town
plan consultations or emerging in the rapidly changing circumstances created by a long and
deep recession. The following are likely to involve HCP as lead or partner with No 28.
1. The Number 28 project, LMAPs, ISOS and others have recognised that many of the
issues of crime, health and well-being in Hexham East are related to drug and addiction
problems. A Project is planned to support the families and friends of the residents with
these issues. Stage 1 – visits to similar projects in the North East. Stage 2 – develop a
Hexham based project, based in Hexham East but serving also other areas of the town.
Cost: HCP management; project funding likely to be available from other sources.
2. Number 28 Outreach. Over the next 2 years it is hoped to develop a project to build on
lessons learnt in Hexham East to benefit other areas of the town, e.g. Chareway and
parts of Priestlands. Cost: some HTC matching (e.g. £5000 to help draw down external
funding
3. Food Bank – in anticipation of benefit changes and in response to a recognised need a
West Northumberland Food Bank is being established – centred on Hexham but serving
a wider area. It is a co-operative venture between the public, private and voluntary
sectors in the town with churches playing a very active role. Over the next year it is
hoped to engage young volunteers in the project and to develop healthy eating
opportunities linked to the scheme. Cost – minimal.
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Theme 6: The Built Environment in Hexham
6.1. Our Vision for the Built Environment and Public Realm in
Hexham
'Townscape quality - past, present and future'
Our vision for the built environment of the town, including its public realm and open spaces
is:
• Protect the past for the future: the historic environment will be protected and used it to
underpin future economic and social success;
• Kerb Appeal: the public realm will be well maintained and improved;
• Made in Hexham: local distinctiveness and quality in new buildings will be ensured and
adoption of Neighbourhood Led Plan, setting the standard of future design and
realisation;
• Gateways to Hexham: Hexham's approaches will be improved to set a scene of
character and quality (road approaches and car parks, especially Wentworth);
• Open for business: the Marketplace will be redesigned to work for people and traders.
6.2. The Current Context
Hexham’s origins date back over 1300 years when St Wilfrid was gifted land by the
Northumbrian Queen to build his church here as a major centre of Christianity. Its built
environment is varied but of generally good quality. The centre of the town retains its
medieval street pattern and a form of development which lends it great charm and character
and which helps to underpin its economic success and general attractiveness. The centre is
ringed by later phases of development – high quality dense Victorian housing and outside
that, less dense twentieth century estate developments.
It has some very important opens paces including Tyne Green and the Sele, as well as
‘green corridors’ following the paths of the burns which flow through the town. The public
realm is varied, with high quality materials around the Abbey and in Fore Street and St
Mary’s Chare, with lower quality materials to Priestpopple and surrounding areas. There is a
general requirement to improve the standard of the public realm, with materials such as
paving, lighting and signage which enhance rather than detract from Hexham’s ‘sense of
place’.
The status of Hexham as a nationally important historic town was underlined by English
Heritage in the mid 1990’s when they confirmed ‘The outstanding importance of Hexham
conservation area has long been acknowledged by English Heritage’ and ‘Hexham itself
ranks as an historic town of some significance’. It has suffered from a disproportionate
amount of unsustainable commuter housing development in the 1980s and 1990s. English
Heritage strongly supported a new green belt close around the town to preserve its historic
character. This was approved in 2000 with the adoption of the Tynedale District Local Plan.
Hexham’s countryside setting goes hand in hand with the quality of its built environment.
6.3. Built Environment in Public Consultations and the Town
Plan Survey
It was clear that no one wanted Hexham to be held in aspic - much needed to happen to
bring the town up to date but this could be achieved by working with the unique historic
townscape. The existing built environment should not hold back all change, but equally, new
development must not squander the past whilst offering no more than a decade or two of
useful life before itself becoming obsolete. Hexham needs to avoid further dilution of its
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unique townscape with ‘anywhere’ buildings. Developers need to be pressed to design
imaginatively and contextually.
Hexham has areas, both industrial and residential, built up over many years using local
materials, and with a useful life span counted in centuries rather than decades. These
should be cherished as the valuable asset they are to Hexham not seen as a problem to be
erased.
The environmental context of the market town on the hill should be maintained and
strengthened. Early Town Plan debate showed that sprawl could be avoided with pressure
instead being used to bring unused and under-used buildings within the town back into full
use.
Examples of these were given as the old work house site opposite the hospital, the old
swimming pool, the under-used County and Royal hotels, the old Burnbrae building on Battle
Hill, and, importantly, flats above shops currently used as storage or not used at all.
It was felt that important routes into the town should not be allowed to become cluttered and
obscured by ‘secondary’ architecture and poorly designed advertising. Key approaches to
Hexham, both for pedestrians and vehicles, were let-down by poor design despite these in
fact being Hexham’s ‘shop window’ and ‘front door’
.
Key figures arising from the Town Plan survey:
Q. All available space inside the town must be used before any new housing is built on
green fields outside of the town. Yes. 84%
A very large figure but this has shown a similar groundswell throughout the process. The
unused brown field sites within the town are damaging to both the economy and day to day
environment. Unused buildings and derelict space within the town caused great concern to
the people and even more so when further large greenfield development looks imminent. It is
important to point out that gardens, allotments and wooded areas within the town should be
protected as a positive contribution to the larger environment and are no longer classified as
‘brownfield’.
Q. Something must be done to make the market place more attractive and flexible for visitors
and shoppers. Yes. 69% in favour of this. 87% including neither agree nor disagree.
This is only tempered by the lack of clarity in the question and rightly so. People it seems are
very much in favour of improving the appearance of this space but many are wary of the
possibility of full pedestrianisation, loss of amenity, closing or limiting existing routes and
above all a poorly thought-out solution.
Q. Our town and county councils must use all planning powers, old and new, to protect the
town’s historic character. Yes. 81% in favour. 89% including neither agree nor disagree.
A huge yes. The general disrepair and neglect of the conservation area is of huge
importance to residents and visitors alike. It is felt that too often buildings and areas are
allowed to fall into disrepair by bad management rather than bad buildings. This is having a
massive knock-on effect and is spoiling the feel and setting of the town. People would like to
see the Town Council show leadership on this, and are fully supportive of moves by the
Town Council to address the problems.
Q. The bus station should stay where it is, with upgrading and new attractive link to the M&S
car park. Yes. 69% in favour. 81% including neither agree or disagree.
Another question favored by those who responded. Similar to the Market place question in
that it is asking a rather open-ended question and people feel again that a poor solution is
worse than the current impasse. The old bus station has character which is important within
the context of Hexham. Its position also allows people to alight at their chosen destination
rather than some distance away which is important for the town centre shops. The
perception is that the area around is ugly, under-used and uncared for and an improved link
to M&S would be of great benefit.
38
6.4. Built Environment: Resulting Areas for Action 2013 to 2018
6.4.1 Protecting the past for the future: Protecting the historic environment and
using it to underpin future economic and social success.
6.4.2. Kerb Appeal: Maintaining and improving the public realm.
6.4.3. Made in Hexham: Ensuring local distinctiveness and quality in new buildings.
Adoption of Neighbourhood Plan.
6.4.4. Gateways to Hexham: How to improve Hexham's approaches to set a scene
of character and quality (road approaches and car parks especially Wentworth!).
6.4.5.Open for business: A Marketplace redesigned to work for people and traders.
6.4.1.i Protecting the past for the future:
To protect the historic environment and use it to underpin future economic and social
success. In the conservation area there are examples of important properties falling into
disrepair, others that lack necessary maintenance. The local authority has tools such as the
serving of Amenity Notices, urgent works notices and repairs notices to ensure good repair.
Positive assistance is required too. Opportunities for grant assistance and funding via
Heritage Lottery Funds and other sources should be pursued.
Use of mechanisms to encourage occupation of empty space, in particular over shops.
Every resident filling these properties is a potential customer for the shops and services.
Every business filling a previously empty floor adds to the vitality and sustainability of the
town. Allowing these buildings to be left empty or under-used is detrimental to the town
centre and squanders a resource.
Currently The Hexham Abbey Project is proceeding apace, aiming to develop Hexham
Abbey and in particular the former Priory buildings as an iconic welcoming place which will
draw people in to participate, learn and be inspired. It will offer enhanced facilities for
pilgrims and visitors and reinforce Hexham town centre’s unique living combination of
heritage, parks and retail. (See Economy, 1.4.4.ii, P20).
6.4.2 Kerb Appeal:
Maintaining and improving the public realm - Hexham has a special character to its public
realm and a local distinctiveness arising from the use of local materials. New interventions
by NCC or other agencies should draw from this local palette and ensure that every piece of
work in the public realm, be it lighting, benches, paving or highway works, contributes rather
than detracts from the special ‘sense of place’ of Hexham.
We wish to see a re-balancing of movement priorities in favour of the pedestrian, cyclist and
public transport user. Cars should be facilitated but not at the expense of other groups, nor
at cost to the character of the town. We suggest a ‘Shared Space’ in market place, with welldesigned measures to reduce vehicle speeds employed in other sensitive areas. Shared
space does not exclude traffic but rebalances the use of space which for too long has been
dominated by the car at the expense of other users.
The town should be ‘legible’ and easy to navigate. This issue includes both the way that new
development is connected to existing routes, and used to facilitate new routes, but also the
quantity and quality of signage in the town. Routes should be logical, free from obstruction,
and sensitively signed where necessary.
39
6.4.3 Made in Hexham:
Ensuring local distinctiveness and quality in new buildings - Hexham has a special character
and a local distinctiveness arising from the use of local materials. New development should
draw from this local palette and create contemporary buildings that strengthen a ‘sense of
place’.
To resist against further damage to the fabric and character of the town we wish to see a
strategy to redevelop ‘eyesores’ in the town such as the Studio Nightclub and parts of the
Beales department store (the prominent rear). We wish to see retention and redevelopment
of those buildings that contribute to Hexham’s quality e.g. the former Workhouse complex on
Corbridge Road. We would wish to see NCC produce development briefs to guide the
sensitive development of these key opportunity sites.
As part of this we would push for a Neighbourhood-led Plan to develop guidelines for higher
standards of architecture both in new building and extension of existing. The point would be
not to limit or deter development but to raise the bar. Seeking out better architecture through
defined guidelines which in turn would add to the harmonised feel of the town and attract
more potential development.
6.4.4 Gateways to Hexham:
The improvement of Hexham's approaches to set a scene of character and quality –
Hexham needs to improve its arrival points and approaches which are in effect the ‘shop
windows’ to the town. While the tree-lined approaches B6531 and A695 add to the quality of
the town, the A69 approach has some very poor elements. The former Fewsters site, the
‘Bunker’ site are eyesores, while the commercial properties on this approach are generally
not well designed, in particular the prominent and unsightly bulk of Tesco. Medium to long
term opportunities to raise design quality on these approaches must be pursued by NCC.
Visitor arrival points, notably the Train Station and the Wentworth car park are presently very
poor. Guardrails impeding access to the Station could readily be rationalised and there is
scope for future improvement through proposed developments in the goods yard. At the
Wentworth, a major public realm scheme is required to create a car park within a landscape
setting, with specimen tree planting, well designed lighting and a high quality arrival point.
6.4.5 Open for Business:
A Market place redesigned to work for people and traders – The improvement of the Market
place is cross-cutting project which also sits within economy and transport themes. Its
present use neglects its potential as another jewel in Hexham’s crown. A design solution is
required which addresses or answers the need for access to town centre shops which feel
that they will lose trade if the parking spaces are permanently lost, and the imperative to
create a high quality centrepiece for Hexham.
6.5. Built Environment: Priorities 2013-14
6.5.1. Adoption of Tynedale’s former shopfront design guide in an updated form, by NCC.
6.5.2. Creation of an Article 4 Direction on key residential parts of historic Hexham to protect
unlisted buildings from insensitive change, and develop Neighbourhood-led Plan, by NCC.
6.5.3. Clarify and implement responsibility for activities such as keeping the town clean and
well maintained, by NCC and HTC.
6.5.4. Design briefs, produced by NCC with public consultation, for key sites such as the
Hexham Workhouse site, to guide the sensitive development of these key opportunity sites,
by NCC.
40
Implementation, Monitoring and Priorities for
2013-14
1. Implementation, Coordination and Communication
The Hexham Town Plan has been drafted following more than 18 months of community
research, consultation and planning, a process initiated by the Hexham Town Council in
September 2011.
The strategy and action plan addresses a wide range of specific themes and issues but
essential to the success of the plan will be the civic leadership and cooperation shown by the
Hexham Town Council and the other community and business organisations operating in the
town.
The process of creating this plan has raised awareness of the wide range of organisations
and individuals taking an active role in improving the town as a place to live, work and do
business. Maintaining active communications and planning between these groups and
continuing to communicate with and involve all members of the community is an essential
element of our vision for Hexham over the next 5 years.
The experience of other town wide project partnerships suggests that there needs to be an
ongoing commitment of all parties to the wider vision. Without a willingness to maintain both
informal as well as formal planning and communication, including regular bulletins about
what is being achieved, there is a danger that inertia or complacency will set in.
Areas for action:
1.1 Town Plan implementation, monitoring and ongoing learning
The Hexham Town Council continue the process started in September 2011 and should
oversee the ongoing progress of the town plan and support its implementation - through the
establishment of a monitoring function and through taking a leading role in specific projects.
The Hexham Town Council should develop its leading role in initiatives designed to learn
from experience in other towns, i.e. membership of Action for Market Towns or similar,
benchmarking projects, exchange visits, etc.
1.2. Co-ordination and Partnership
Hexham Town Council should continue to support and play an active role in initiatives which
aim to co-ordinate the actions of local councils, statutory, public, voluntary, community and
private organisations, for example Hexham Community Partnership, Hexham Business
Forum and Hexham and Tynedale Community Trust.
1.3. Communications
A regular town newsletter should be produced – at least 3 times a year, ideally delivered to
all households and businesses in the town. This could be an initiative of Hexham
Community Partnership.
An open town meeting should take place at least twice a year – the Annual Town Meeting in
spring and an additional meeting in autumn/winter, potentially hosted by the Community
Partnership.
41
2. Monitoring the Implementation Cycle and Evaluating
Progress
The Hexham Town Plan must remain alive and vibrant. It needs to be effectively monitored
and evaluated to secure consistent progress through its phased projects and towards its
overall vision.
2.1 Monitoring the Implementation Cycle
It is proposed that this will operate at four levels.
2.1.1 Town Plan working groups (which may in some areas overlap with current Theme
groups) will meet regularly to complete business and to report on and assess small steps of
progress and to manage the introduction of subsequent phases, reporting to the Town Plan
Steering Group.
2.1.2 The Town Plan Steering Group, which will have a composition that reflects town plan
implementation and reporting, will meet quarterly to receive Theme or working group
updates and reports, using subsequently and where necessary its influence to question and
reduce barriers to progress. It will in turn provide formal reports to the Hexham Town Council
and Hexham Community Partnership Board, that will include current financial implications.
2.1.3 The Hexham Town Council will through its Committees remain in close contact to the
progress achieved in individual themes and will receive half-yearly progress reports that will
cover implementation and current and future financial implications. The Hexham Town
Council will thus be fully informed at appropriate times before planned open Town Meetings
and its budget setting processes.
2.1.4 The celebration of progress through the individual Town Plan projects and the Town
Plan’s overall achievements will be secured by the identification of a communications
function, within Town Council or Community Partnership structures (see e.g. proposed
newsletter, 1.3 above). Press releases will be regular.
3. How will the Plan projects be funded?
3.1 The Town Plan has come forward with a variety of projects for the next five years. Some
will require substantial funding, though not immediately. If Hexham is to stand a reasonable
chance of obtaining significant grant funding from outside bodies it will be required to
demonstrate that the community leaders and residents are united in wanting to move the
town forward. Funders assess that commitment in part by how much match funding in cash
and in part how much contribution in kind (e.g. through resident volunteering), the town can
muster.
3.2 The Town Plan launch survey and final resident survey both indicated that a majority of
people recognise that, if the town is to improve, they might be expected to pay a little more
council tax to boost the town council’s coffers. In the last year there has been reluctance to
contemplate a small rise, earmarked for town projects, notwithstanding the clear evidence
that a great many of our residents could easily afford this. This is a position the Town’s
Councillors must reconsider. Implementation of the Plan requires money but successful
grant applications will repay the Council’s contribution many times over;
3.3 The Town Council and our various community groups should also consider how they can
become more aware of funding available through publicly advertised grants. Being better
equipped as suitably constituted organisations to apply for grant, and willing to act with
others in any informal time-limited project partnerships will help local organisations meet
what are increasingly key criteria for funders.
42
Hexham Town Plan Priorities 2013-14
Priority
Reference
1. Economy Contact: Mike Rowlson
1.1 Your Town Needs You! 1.4.3.i P20
Shop Local
1.2 Enterprise Hub
1.4.5.i P21
Lead
Key Partners
Cost 2013-14
Business
Forum
HBF
Tradespeople
minimal
HCP
1.3
Mutual Promotion of Abbey
1.4.4ii P20
and Town
2. Transport Contact: Mike Parker
2.1 Hexham Bus Station –
2.4.1.i P22
outline plans
2.2 The Car Club
2.4.9.1 P25
Abbey PPCC
HTC, HCP
grant
available
nil
Transition
Tynedale
NCC
2.3
NCC
Sustainable
Transport
HTC
The Pedestrian Experience
2.4.8.i P25
other quick wins P25
3. Generations Contact: Rosemary Theobalds
3.1 Drop-in Centre for older
3.4.1.i P28
people
3.2
Sunday Afternoon Activities - 3.4.1.ii P28
feasibility
4. Arts and Heritage Contact: Judy Lloyd
4.1 Hallgate town entry - scoping 4.4.2.i P31
4.2 Sunday Market - scoping
4.4.4.ii P32
4.3
Volunteer Recruitment and
4.4.1.i P31
Organisation
4.4 Arts & Heritage Trails
4.4.2.ii P31
5. Health and Well-being Contact: Ted Liddle
5.1 New link – Interchange to
5.4.1i P35
Tyne Green - feasibility
5.2
New link – Interchange to
Haugh Lane - feasibility
5.4.2.i/iiP35
5.3
Cycling Safety – North
Hexham
5.4.3.i P36
Email: [email protected]
NCC
HTC
minimal
grant
available
NCC budget
Email: [email protected]
TP Generations minimal
Hexham
Community
Centre
Older Persons’
Working Group
TP Generations
minimal
Email: [email protected]
HTC
NCC
minimal
NCC Markets TP Arts &
minimal
Division
Heritage
TP Arts &
HCP, HTC
low, £3k
Heritage
Civic Society
Town Guides
£10,000
Email: [email protected]
NCC
TP Health &
NCC minimal
Sustainable
Well-being
Transport
NCC
Sustainable
Transport
NCC
Sustainable
Transport
TP Health &
Well-being
NCC minimal
TP Health &
Well-being
NCC, up to
£36k
6. Built Environment Contact: Roger Higgins
Email: [email protected]
6.1 Adopt updated shopfront
6.4.2 P41 NCC
HTC, TP Built
minimal
design guide
Env’
6.2 Article 4 Direction: protect
6.4.1 P42 NCC
HTC, TP Built
minimal
unlisted buildings, and
Env’
develop Neighbourhood Plan
6.3 Responsibilities for Hexham
6.4.2 P42 NCC and
minimal
cleanliness and maintenance
HTC
6.4 Design briefs for sensitive
6.4.3 P42 NCC
HTC to lobby
minimal
developments
for
Economy (4.6), Transport (4.4), Built Environment (4.2)
7.1 Improvements to the Market Place and town HTC to lead
NCC
low in initial
centre traffic circulation and parking –
phase, £3k
scoping, initial phase
Town Plan Management 2013-14
8.1 To enable pump-priming of the Priorities
HTC
TP Steering
£3,000
requiring minimal funding (see above)
Group
43
Appendix 1
Hexham Demographics and other Data, Strategies
& Reports
The reader is directed to the Northumberland Knowledge Website which is a source of key
information relating to different county themes. Some of this gives insight into local town or
district circumstances. The reader should make use of the available guidance on the site to
check how up to date the current published data is. Some is very recent and others still
relying on the 2001 census data. The theme reports are being regularly updated.
See: Northumberland Knowledge www.northumberland.gov.uk
www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=10891
The 2011 census material most relevant to Hexham’s three county council wards is included
in three Ward Sheet summaries for Hexham Central with Acomb, Hexham East and Hexham
West - all in the West division of the county. Access the Ward sheet summary area by
clicking on Northumberland Ward Profiles area on the Northumberland Knowledge Home
Page.
See also: Income, Wages and Salaries
Northumberland Economic Assessment Research Report ,(May 2012)
(includes some ward level information as well as wider county wide material)
Main County Strategies
Northumberland Sustainable Community Strategy, 2011
www.northumberland.gov.uk/idoc.ashx?docid=b21aa0da-b727...1
provides the long term community vision of the county with its aim of improving the
economic, social and environmental well-being of our communities. Essentially it tells the
‘story of the place’ for Northumberland.
Northumberland Economic Strategy. 2010-15
www.northumberland.gov.uk/idoc.ashx?docid=818d6e41-61cf-4fa1...
Its vision is ‘to secure opportunities for residents and businesses in a resilient economy’.
Northumberland Draft Core Strategy. Issues and Options (May 2012)
www.northumberland.gov.uk/idoc.ashx?docid=aa9be1c5-e6af-41c7...
See also Northumberland Draft Core Strategy-Preferred Options (Feb 2013)
www.northumberland.limehouse.co.uk/portal/planning/core_strategy/cspo
This is the county’s draft spatial planning framework to 2030, currently still out for
consultation. This is a very substantial document covering all aspects of anticipated or
desired changes to the county’s urban and rural development. It has very far- reaching
implications for policy and county decision making in the years to come.
44
Northumberland Transport Plan 2011-26
www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=7846
Northumberland Tourism Strategy 2010-15
www.northumberlandtourism.org.uk/.../index.php?...id...
Northumberland Housing Strategy 2011-12
http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=3510#1Strategy
Northumberland Draft Cultural Strategy 2011-16
http://www.newbiggintowncouncil.gov.uk/meetings/docs/ncc_draft_cultural_strat_jan11.pdf
Northumberland Children and Young People’s Plan 2011-14
www.northumberland.gov.uk/idoc.ashx?docid=b05d4f75-c8c0-4ff5...
Older People in Northumberland-A Longer term View
http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=4330
Hexham based plans and documents used as background
reference
Hexham Health Check and Action Plan, 2003
Tynedale Creative Industries Survey 2007
Hexham and Hexhamshire Locality Profiles 2008-10
Hexham-Northumberland Extensive Urban Survey, NCC and English Heritage, 2009
Hexham (Draft) Conservation Area Character Appraisal, 2008
Hexham Town Centre Health Check Report (Experian) 2008
Hexham Destination Plan with updated Action Plan; 2010
Tynedale Housing Needs Assessment, 2012
From Field to Fork. (Mapping the Hexham Food Web) CPRE 2012
Northumberland Tourism Reader research 2012
45
Appendix 2
Themes’ Sources
The Economy: Sources
•
•
•
•
•
Destination Planning for Hexham (Miller Research) - July 2009 – Updated Action Plan
December 2010
Hexham Town Centre Health Check Report (NCC Oct 2008)
NCC Northumberland Knowledge website – (previously Research & Statistics)
(http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=15711)
Northumberland Local Development Plan - Core Strategy Issues and Options
Consultation Document: May 2012
Labour Market Information
(http://www.labourmarketnortheast.co.uk/lmi/keystatistics/northumberland.html)
Transport: Sources.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hexham Town Plan Survey 2013
Market Place research on parking conducted by Transport Working Group, 2013
Key walking routes in Hexham and signing review: Hexham Community Partnership
Transport sub group (2003)
Hexham Regeneration Investment Strategy. 2000. EDAW
Hexham Transport Study. 2003. MVA
Umbra Civil engineers sustainable community (referred to in MVA report)
Regenco 2006
Hexham Traffic and Development Study 2006
GSC Engineers 2007
BT bill consulting engineers. Routeways Project 2006
Northumberland Information Network 2008
Hexham Parking Study. Colin Buchanan and Partners 2010
Northumberland LTP 2011 to 2026
NCC draft cycling strategy 2009
Hexham Community Cycling Hub study 2008
Hexham Market Town viability study (2009/10)
NCC Public Transport Strategy – Hamilton-Baillie Shared Space scheme (reported in the
Hexham Civic Society Summer 2011 newsletter )
Generations: Sources
The Generations working group has based all its plans and ambitions on the results of the
Town Plan Survey and informal conversations. Transport emerges always as a key issue
when providing for Older Persons, who are generally less mobile and do not have access to
cars. It is hoped to provide outings possibly as part of the Sunday afternoon activity.
Arts and Heritage: Sources
•
•
•
•
Tynedale Creative Industries Survey, 2007
Arts Council Plan 2011-15
Northumberland Draft Cultural Strategy, 2011-16
Report of David Lisser 2009 for Hexham Arts Forum. Should Hexham call itself ‘ Arts
Town’?
46
Health & Well-being: Sources
The National Institute of Clinical Evidence (NICE) guidance suggests that implementation of
their recommendations www.nice.org.uk/PH008 should help health and well-being boards
deliver on their requirements within the public health white paper Healthy lives, healthy
people (2010) through promoting and creating built or natural environments that encourage
and support physical activity.
• http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/11917/38983/38983.pdf
• http://www.gov.uk/government/publications/linking-places-fund-tranche-2
• Paths linking People and Nature / 2010 http://www.snh.gov.uk/docs/B585725.pdf
• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nhs-health-well-being-improvementframework
Built Environment: Source
•
Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan for Hexham (2009), adopted by
Northumberland County Council.
47
Appendix 3
The Hexham Town Plan Survey Results, February 2013
N.B. A= strongly agree, agree; D= disagree, strongly disagree; N= no view
Buildings and Public Spaces
1. All available space inside the town must be used before any new housing is built on
greenfield sites outside the town.
A= 73.31% D= 16.29 %
N=11.20%
2. Something must be done to make the Market Place more attractive and flexible for visitors
and shoppers.
A= 68.54% D= 8.93%
N=20.84%
3. Our Town and County Councils must use all planning powers, old and new, to protect the
town’s historic character.
A=81.17% D=7.21%
N=10.06%
4. The bus station should stay where it is, with upgrading and a new, attractive link to the
M&S car park.
A=68.81% D=14.59%
N=15.3%
Our Town Economy
5. Look at these two statements:
a) Hexham is the right size to enjoy a sense of community.
b) Hexham needs to see moderate population growth to maintain and grow essential
services.
Which of the following best reflects your view?
a) 52.4%, b) 26.75%, Both 15.36%, Neither 3.16%, No answer 2.33%
6. The town needs to provide more employment and can do this without building on green
fields around the town.
A=72.71%
D=10.02%
N= 17.28%
7. Which sectors should be actively supported to bring more employment to the town? (up to
5 of those mentioned)
• Tourism and hospitality, 78.88%
• Business start ups, 69.55%
• Retail, 68.72%
• Digital technologies, 59.81%
• Manufacturing, 49.61%
• Arts and crafts, 38.13%
• Construction, 24.28%
• Council Administration, 20.16%
• Home working, 19.07%,
• Home Services, 14.44%
48
8. It is important to me that I can buy my shopping and services from local people and local
businesses.
A=87.52% D=4.25%
N=10.97%
9. Hexham should try to attract a greater number of visitors who will spend money in the
town.
A=91.09%
D=4.25%
N=10.97%
10. Hexham needs more visitor accommodation of all types across the full price range.
A=73.66%
D=2.06%
N=24.28%
Transport
11. To reduce congestion (and give more parking spaces), I would like to see a maximum
20mph one way system round the town centre.
A= 43.42% D=37.79%
N=19.31%
12. I would pay more to park in the centre of Hexham if the extra was used to help fund a
shuttle bus from Wentworth and rail station into the centre.
A=24.55% D=48.69%
N= 26.76%
13. I would not park for any length of time in the town centre if there was a shuttle bus from
the Wentworth and rail station to the Market Place.
A=21.94% D=42.07%
N= 36.00%
14. I would cycle more if there were safe, well signposted cycle routes.
A=64.59% D=7.88%
N=27.52%
15. For people’s safety, Hallstile Bank must be closed immediately if it is icy or snowy.
A=46.49%
D=20.56%
N=32.96%
Arts and Heritage
16. A key pedestrian approach into town, Hallbank , should be made more attractive and an
arts and heritage zone.
A=64.59%
D=7.88%
N=27.52%
17. A heritage mural and public art trail around the town showing scenes from Hexham’s
history will attractmore visitors into more areas of the town.
A=53.81% D=18.95%
N=27.25%
18. Hexham should improve its weekend offer with regular arts, crafts, antiques and book
markets.
A=86.35%
D=4.84%
N= 18.81%
49
19. There should be an annual weekend festival of art, craft, music drama and writing by
people from Hexham and nearby villages.
A=73.03%
D=4.42%,
N=22.21%
20. To make the town centre livelier, more spaces, (including empty and underused
buildings) should be given over to local artists and musicians to display their work and
perform.
A=62.94%
D=7.75%
N=24.21%
The Generations
21. Older people deserve more opportunities and entertainment, with transport if necessary,
in the afternoons as well as the evenings.
A=63.89%
D=6.25%
N=29.86%
22. There should be more support for older people through befriending (eg around DIY and
gardening).
A=69.86%
D=1.95%
N=28.19%
23. There need to be more houses that older and younger people can afford in Hexham.
A=70.84%
D=8.89%
N=20.28%
24. It would be wonderful if Hexham’s older and younger people had opportunities to come
together to share skills, stories and work together.
A=64.86%
D=5.69%
N=32.5%
25. Shops and businesses must see the profit to be had from providing goods and services
that fill the gaps that older people (eg shoes) and younger people (eg pocket money
clothing) experience in Hexham.
A=57.78%
D=7.08%
N=35.14%
Health and Wellbeing
26. The Hexham riverside must be used for more walking and cycle paths and fitness
activities.
A=79.97%
D=4.45%
N=14.04%
27. In their policy making, Town and County Councils must put emphasis on saving energy,
recycling waste, reducing carbon emissions and healthy lifestyles.
A=81.64%
D=4.59%
N=13.77%
28. Hexham needs more community hubs, like number 28 Derwent Road, where people can
find company, mutual support, advice and ideas.
A= 47.98%
D=10.01%
N=42.00%
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Town Plan Implementation
29. It will be Hexham Town Council’s job to make sure that the Town Plan’s priorities are
carried out by itself and other town bodies.
A=80. 72%
D=3.22%
N=16.06%
30. I will be prepared to pay a bit more council tax to give the Town Council extra money to
make sure the Town Plan’s priorities are carried out (£5 per year per household, 10p a
week, gives an extra £20,000 to the Council).
A=63.68%
D=19.84%
N=19.84%
31. We will need to recruit and provide much help for resident volunteers who come forward
to work on town plan projects.
A=68.72%
D=3.91%
N=27.36%
32. Community life would be improved by a twice yearly town meeting, where residents can
share ideas and raise town issues with councillors and the Community Partnership.
A=75.56%
D=5.59%
N=18.85%
51
Appendix 4
Journal of Town Plan Activities August 2011-March 2013
Time Line
Phase 1 (August- December 2011)
Hexham Town Council discusses the possibility of facilitating the production of a Hexham
Town Plan, in line with the framework recommended by the Quality Town and Parish
Council scheme, 2008. Working party set up under leadership of Councillor Judy Lloyd to
consider the requirements.
(Cllrs Adrian Snowball, George Ferguson, Mat Donnelly, Derek Kennedy, Philip Clark; Mayor
Cllr Rad Hare, ex officio.)
Hexham Town Council vote to pursue Town Plan initiative with late autumn launch to the
public. £5,000 allocated for work needing to be done through the year. Working group share
current thinking on issues affecting the town. The aims of Ludlow’s successful Town Plan
are adapted for Hexham to suggest guiding principles for Hexham’s Plan. Suitable launch
event planned for the public.
November 18-20th
Well publicised launch weekend in Hexham Town Centre. Three types of engagement
encouraged:
• statements under each of 12 themes to test public support/disagreement. in weekend.
• invitation to residents to post comments on map, indicating likes and dislikes within the
town and a personal suggestion for one thing to make Hexham better.
• open discussion to explore issues connected with underlying aims of Town Plan.
Estimated 150 residents participate. Numbers of residents volunteer to join a steering group.
December 2011
Report on Market Place survey to Town Council
January 2012
Report to Hexham Community Partnership on Launch Event
Report to Town Council and invitation to councillors to join steering group. (Cllrs Ferguson,
Snowball, Smith, Kennedy, Lloyd). Request for Hexham Town Council to consider how it
can support the aims of the Town Plan.
Presentation to Transition Tynedale – more residents volunteer to join steering group.
29th January, inaugural meeting of steering group. Officers appointed; working groups set
up to set own agenda of group meetings - remit to research topic backgrounds/previous
reports; discuss issues; consider means of testing opinion; identify relevant town groups to
invite to engage. Two-monthly meeting of steering group programmed to share progress and
plan whole group activity decided.
February- May 2012
Report to Town Council Steering Group Meeting, March 29th; Report to HCP April and TC.
Website pages added to Town Council website with on line discussions forums for steering
group and members of the public added. Constitution and Group Terms of reference drawn
up. Groups researching recent plans and pieces of work done in Hexham relevant to their
area of interest and the wider picture.
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Steering Group Meeting 15th May;
Town litter picking event organised and advertised to wider public to help contribute to a
cleaner town environment.
Litter pickers purchased for future use. Weekend litter pick of around 20 people.
Meeting with Northumberland County Council Planning Officer to discuss Neighbourhood
Led Planning and proposed New LDF. Visioning discussion and feedback at No 28 Derwent
Road with women’s group.
Annual Town Meeting presentation, 28th May.
June 2012
Groups discuss Issues and Options document for NCC’s new LDF and some responses
made.
Steering Group Meeting re Visioning afternoon, June 18th
June 24th
Town Plan Visioning event at Hexham Library. Four working groups give presentations.
Group discussions generate a vision of Hexham in 100 ideas drawn up to take forward for
further consideration by working and steering groups. Approximately 90 residents and reps
of organisations present.
Older people’s lunch club surveys and conversations undertaken and leaflet drop regarding
Sunday afternoon tea parties for isolated people.
July 2012
Presentations/report to Hexham Community Partnership; Hexham Abbey PCC; Hexham
Business Forum.
July 21-22. Arts On and Off the Street event by Arts and Heritage Group organised to obtain
feedback from artists/performers and members of the public regarding an arts weekend
which aims to support arts and other town businesses. Group also makes application
through Woodhorn for £9000 grant for community archive project, to model grant/fund
raising potential of town partnerships for community benefit.
August-September 2012
September 4th Steering Group meeting
Presentation to Rotary Club; preparation for second open meeting in October at Community
Centre-people focussed Hexham. ‘What will the people make of it?’
October 2012
Presentation to Older People’s Forum and group discussion at Hexham General Hospital
Morning with school focus groups regarding young people’s issues
October 7th Second Public Meeting for Community/People based agenda. Approx 40
attendees.
Meeting with Community Centre and WRVS rep to discuss new drop in project.
Steering Group Meeting to review evidence base from November 2011-October 2012
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November-December 2012
Business Forum survey at Mart event.
Working group consideration of potential questions for survey; Group leaders’ and officers’
meetings re questions.
Detailed report to Town Councillors at December’s meeting regarding review of the year’s
work and invitation to meet In January to discuss implications for the Town Council regarding
the approval and implementation of the Town Plan.
Councillor Lloyd and the work of the steering group acknowledged.
Finalisation of questionnaire and posting on line December 20.
January- February 2013
January Town Council meeting. Town Plan Group members express concern at failure of
Town Council to allocate money to the Town Plan in its 2013-14 budget.
Councillors unanimously reject specific proposal of Councillor Kennedy for a £5000
allocation to Plan. Suggestion that money could be found out of the Council’s contingency
reserve in due course.
Town Plan Survey lead story in new Community newspaper (January 4th ). Advertisement in
Hexham Courant
Paper copies of survey in Library, Forum Cinema, Community Centre, No 28 Derwent Road
Survey ends Feb 1st. Preliminary findings brought to Town Council on 4th February. Meeting
with Town Councillors rescheduled for February 18th. 768 surveys submitted (on line and
paper).
February meeting of Town Council again rejects idea of allocation of money to 2013-14
budget and suggests money from contingency in due course.
Steering Group Meeting for feed back on Survey and consideration of way forward with
project planning. Informal meeting of town councillors to discuss the implications of the
survey report and Town Plan engagement work.
Meeting expresses its support of the Town Plan idea.
Meeting of Mayor, Councillor Robson and Councillor Lloyd with Chair of Community
Partnership, Vice Chair and Partnership Officer to discuss next steps. View expressed that
interim report be presented to Town Council at March meeting and that Annual Town
Meeting on March 18th be used as opportunity to bring together town groups to consider
suggestions for proposed projects and get preliminary offers of support and expressions of
interest in principle.
Annual Town Meeting attracts around 120 residents
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