URL: https://northumberland.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=323

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The purpose of this report is to provide cabinet members with an update on two active travel schemes that are underway, following a successful bid via what was known as the ‘Levelling Up Fund’. A background will be provided for both the ‘Hexham to Corbridge’ corridor and the ‘Bedlington’ corridor detailing the key issues, the need for change and the anticipated benefits that the schemes will deliver. This report will primarily focus on the Hexham to Corbridge corridor as the proposed route alignment enters private land. Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) powers may therefore be required.

Content: RESOLVED that:-   (a )     Cabinet note progress on each scheme to date, as the detailed design process nears completion;   (b )     Cabinet approve the chosen route alignment for both the Hexham to Corbridge Scheme and the Bedlington Scheme;   (c )     Cabinet note and approve the collective decision taken by the Active Travel Corridors board at the 5th Board Meeting held on 23/05/2024 to develop the CPO process for the Hexham to Corbridge Scheme;   (d )     Cabinet note that if a CPO is required for the Hexham to Corbridge Scheme then a further detailed report will be submitted for Cabinet approval prior to the making of any CPO;   (e )     authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Place and Regeneration in consultation with the Executive Director for Transformation & Resources to take all necessary steps to effect the delivery of the project including any changes to detailed design of each scheme as may be required;   (f )      authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Place and Regeneration in consultation with the Executive Director for Transformation & Resources to acquire all third party interests in land required for the totality of the Hexham to Corbridge Scheme as set out in paragraphs 5.39 to 5.43 of the report including negotiating compensation payable on a deemed compulsory purchase basis;   (g )     Cabinet note the phased approach to each scheme as set out in the report; and   (h )     Cabinet approve in principle the use of compulsory purchase powers under sections 239, 240, 246, 250 and 260 of the Highways Act 1980 to acquire such 3rd party land interests and rights necessary to deliver the Hexham to Corbridge Scheme and that authority be given to the Executive Director of Place and Regeneration to progress a Compulsory Purchase Order ("CPO") to deliver the Hexham to Corbridge Scheme in parallel with seeking to acquire such 3rd party rights and interests.

Date of Decision: November 12, 2024