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Villagers voice their ideas for seafront changes
Residents have made a 'wish list' of potential seafront improvements that could have visitors flocking to their popular village over the next few years.
Over 400 people attended a public exhibition and were given a say on some possible environmental improvements that could be carried out along and around the existing seafront.
Newbiggin LIFE alongside its partners, is hoping to secure funding to deliver some of the changes that local residents have raised as their preferred options.
The top four priorities chosen by the community from a 'shopping list' of enhancements for the promenade include, the removal of the boat store and paddling pool, enhancements to the surrounding area by landscaping; the introduction of horseshoe steps on to the new beach; attractive landscaping outside Vernon Place and upgrading the play park at Church Point.
On July 11 the design proposals were on display for the first time at St Bartholomew's Church Centre in Front Street, Newbiggin.
At the same time residents had their first chance to view drawings of an imaginative artwork feature that would sit on top of the proposed breakwater.
Designed by renowned artist Sean Henry, the sculpture depicts a man and a woman standing at the end of a pier. Located 200 metres offshore this would be a stu nning visual attraction.
Wansbeck Council's Deputy Leader Councillor and Chairman of Newbiggin LIFE David Nicholson said: "The public exhibition has proved to be a huge success and is a prime example of ongoing consultation with local people.
"The potential improvements would help restore Newbiggin back to its former glory as an attractive and popular seaside resort which spells good news not only for the villagers but the whole of Wansbeck."
Next Spring Wansbeck Council is hoping to be able to start work on the construction of a new breakwater in the centre of Newbiggin Bay as well as reviving the village beach with thousands of tonnes of sand.
The Department for Rural Affairs (Defra) is currently considering proposals to grant aid the work expected to cost around £10million. The scheme would help protect the Bay from further coast erosion and also boost the beach and seafront which once drew visitors in their droves.
Visitors to the exhibition were also updated with a progress report on the 'Mary Joicey' Maritime and Heritage Trust project to create a visitor centre, which will house the restored lifeboat that served the village for many years, before retiring from service.