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Homeowners' fury as panoramic view blocked by 2m fence erected 'without warning'

Lorraine Twizell in front of the two-metre fence: 'The whole village is very angry.' (Reach)
Lorraine Twizell in front of the two-metre fence: 'The whole village is very angry.' (Reach)

Homeowners in a village boasting some of the best views of the River Tyne have been left furious after a housing developer erected a two-metre high fence blocking some of the stunning vista.

A large wooden fence has been erected on the proposed site of a four-home development by Hamilton Willis, with a rejected planning application currently subject to an appeal.

Villagers in Heddon-on-the-Wall, Northumberland, said they were shocked to see the fence in front of benches commonly used by walkers.

Lorraine Twizell, whose house overlooks the fence, was furious at the lack of warning.

Villagers were shocked when a large wooden fence was erected on the border of the proposed development site. (Reach)
Villagers were shocked when a large wooden fence was erected on the border of the proposed development site. (Reach)

She said: "The whole village is very angry. There is a woman and her disabled son who like to come here and bird watch and he's very distressed. People also come here and watch the fireworks at New Year and on Bonfire Night.

"The benches are also used by people walking from Newburn, Wylam and Throckley. It's a viewing point which lots of the villagers come and use, and now the view is totally gone."

Maureen Gibson, who also lives off the site, added: "They had said this hedge had been overgrown and untidy. I've lived here 60 years and it's never been untidy. It's childish."

The view across the valley which has now been blocked by the fence. (Reach)
The view across the valley which has now been blocked by the fence. (Reach)

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Neighbours have contacted Northumberland County Council claiming the fence should have had planning permission due to its proximity to the highway.

A spokesman for the council said: "We are aware of this issue which is at the very early stages of investigation. An officer will be visiting the site in the coming weeks to determine if the fence requires planning permission.

"Everyone who has been in touch with the council about this matter will be informed of the outcome of the site visit."

Twizell also said of the proposed housing development, which was opposed by neighbours: "In the appeal documents they've said they've been considerate to local residents, but they haven't."

Hamilton Willis did not respond to requests for comment.