Member Article

Royal coincidence for Newbiggin

A Northumberland town experienced a moment of serendipity last week when a royal visit coincided with planning approval for a new development.

Newbiggin by the Sea played host to His Royal Highness the Earl of Wessex on the day planning approval was agreed by Wansbeck District Council for the village’s proposed maritime centre - designed by architectural and design firm, Mosedale Gillatt Architects (MGA).

Prince Edward toured the nearby Woodhorn Mining Museum and Archives Heritage Centre, before meeting with members of the Heritage Partnership and MGA Director, Tim Mosedale, who unveiled the firm’s design plans for the new centre. Once the plans had been unveiled, the Mary Joicey Lifeboat - which will form the focal point of the centre - was taken back to the village for the day to be inspected by Prince Edward.

The new centre will house both the restored Mary Joicey and a local Coble fishing boat, the ‘Girl Ann’. The centre will also feature corporate and educational facilities, and a public café and restaurant.

Tim Mosedale said: “Winning planning approval for such a distinctive building on a sensitive site like this is a great achievement, not only for us but the whole client team. Every effort was made during the design process to involve interested parties ranging from the local community to the planning consultees - and all their comments have had an input in the final design. This is a significant milestone and a huge vote of confidence in what is going to be a very exciting project.”

Richard Martin, Chair of Newbiggin by the Sea Heritage Partnership said: “The establishment of this new centre will not only showcase Newbiggin’s rich history, but also give a unique day out experience at the seaside which will compliment the major bay regeneration works.”

For more information about the Newbiggin Maritime Centre, go to www.newbigginmaritimecentre.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .