PLANS to construct of a new front boundary wall and gate pier with soft landscaping integrated at a Tynedale residential property have been approved.

In June this year, Mr Paul Makepeace of Darras Hall in Ponteland applied for planning permission to create a new front boundary wall and gate pier with soft landscaping integrated.

During the consultation period, only the Planning Comittee of Ponteland Town Council objeced to the plans.

In a statement it said: "Ponteland Town Council maintain that this soft landscaping should be retained in this stretch of Runnymede Road, as included in the recommendations from the original Planning Officer and wish to object to the proposal to replace the hedging with a boundary wall and gates

Northumberland County Council made the final decision with a 'no objection' but they did add a condition for the applicant.

A spokesperson for the council in a statement said:"There is no objection with the following advisory to be added to any consent granted: There is a risk that birds nests will be destroyed or damaged if vegetation is removed during the breeding season (typically March to August Inclusive for most species in Northumberland). All wild birds and active nests are protected and it is an offence to intentionally destroy nests, eggs or dependent young when on or near the nest, or to kill or take them. Applicants and contractors should note that the protected species legislation operates independently of the planning system, planning consent does not override the legislation relating to protected species and that they should be aware that there is a small chance of encountering protected species during works.

"If protected species such as nesting birds are encountered during development then works should cease immediately and professional advice should be sought straight away.

"The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) has an online professional directory should assistance be required.

"https://cieem.net/i-need/finding-a-consultant/ The applicant should note that where sites are very overgrown or have features such as log piles or piles of stones there may be risk of causing harm to species protected under law from killing or injury such as reptiles, or species of principal importance such as hedgehogs.

"Any vegetation or materials clearance be carried out gradually and with due care and attention.

Highways Development Management also added an no objection to the plans.