Rothbury Ward Election. County Council Elections. Which Candidates Speak for Nature?
- Katie Scott
- 6 days ago
- 40 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Election of County Councillor for the Rothbury Ward, May 1st 2025
It was quite a surprise when eight (8) candidates put themselves forward, hoping to be our new Ward Councillor.
We had hoped that a hustings could be held, so that the residents of the Rothbury Ward could see and hear what each candidate had to offer. We approached the U3A Discussion Group to see if they could organise this, but, unfortunately, because of timings, it was not a possibility.
Rothbury CAN is a Group which was formed in 2021. After being appointed as an NCC Voluntary Community Climate Champion, it was easy to find many like minded folk within our area, and Rothbury CAN was formed. In 2023 we won the BBC Make a Difference Award, in the Green Category.
Rothbury CAN is an 'Unregistered Charity'.
We are a very friendly, open, convivial group of local people. Everyone is welcome to take part in our activities. You can learn about our different groups and events from our website.
For the last four years we have held a Great Big Green Event in September, with selling stalls and information, discussions. demonstrations and talks. (Watch out for our events in 2025!).
Since 2023 we have also had a Great Big Green Film Event, showing films about farming and soil, followed by a discussion. These events have been very well attended, including by local farmers. It has been important to us to learn from these debates.
We have been very fortunate to find many people with a great deal of expertise and knowledge in our beautiful area who help and advise us. Farmers, ecologists, hobbyists, and many others. We gratefully accept help, advice, and support, we are learning all the time.
In 2024, we hosted the film, Six Inches of Soil.
Our film showing of Kiss the Ground was very well attended.
Our ROWANS group has been planting native flowers, hedges, trees. Kevin Wharf has kindly advised, and donated, seeds for us, which is so welcome. We are looking forward to a new project, working with Living Woods, on a nearby project.
Rothbury Ward Local Council Elections
Because environmental issues are our main concern, we decided to write to each candidate inviting them to answer 6 specific questions about biodiversity and climate change.
We also invited them to tell us about themselves, what they feel the most important aspects in representing the Rothbury Ward, and what they believe the main role of a County Councillor is. The range of answers is very interesting and we hope you enjoy reading them all.
We look forward to working with the successful candidate. And we thank all of the candidates for their generous responses.
We are sharing the letter we wrote to each candidate. We are also sharing each of the candidates replies, to each question, as well at the full letter as a PDF.
To make reading and understanding each answer straightforward, however, I have presented those as 6 different sections.
PLEASE NOTE, This has been difficult to collate, and we have done our best. Let us know if you spot any errors, please. And we had no idea it would be so very wordy!
Question One: What can you/ do you intend to do to help remove sewage from our waterways? Do you feel developers should share the cost of upgrading sewage treatment plants that are beyond capacity to get planning permission? What will you do to ensure new development does not increase flood risk? |
Steven Bridgett. INDEPENDENT
Firstly, I agree that our local children should be able to paddle and swim in the River Coquet, The River Aln, The Elsdon Burn and their tributaries without having to worry about what they are paddling alongside and if they might end up ill or with an infection as a result. As someone who has swam in the River Coquet all my life and will be in the river again next month for the annual duck race, I don’t want to be walking away with ear infections, eye infections or anything else along those lines, as I am sure many local parents don’t want the same for their children. It is particularly important that the River Coquet, which is classed as a Site of Scientific Special Interest, remains clean given the number of species within in it that rely on clean water such as ranunculus, invertebrates, fish and otters. Not only that, but it is also important for both residents and the local economy that that our rivers remain clean and healthy. I support making sure that the agencies which monitor the private water companies have sufficient resources that enable them to do so and are able to take action were appropriate but much of this matter remains well outside the remit of a local ward councillor. Aside from adding my voice to calls for private water companies to do their jobs properly. Which I have consistently done by highlighting where local sewage releases have occurred. With regards to developers paying for the upgrade of sewage treatment facilities; I would have no objection to this, but I cannot see why this is required. Northumbrian Water already make huge profits, why can some of this not be invested in properly upgrading their own infrastructure. I should point out that Northumbrian have already spent over £12 million upgrading the sewage treatment infrastructure at various locations within this area including Rothbury, Snitter and Whittingham. In relation to new development increasing flood risk; I will continue to work with the planning officers at NCC and the flood prevention team to make sure any developments in this area are planned and built in the right place and maximise the use of SUDS and other solutions to avoid run off. As set out by the National Planning Policy Framework. Previously, I have engaged with multiple projects, agencies and partners on catchment level flood prevention and schemes to slow the flow on a dynamic river system. Alwinton and Netherton projects are two good examples of this and if elected and I will keep pushing for these projects that work alongside our local farmers in improving our local rivers and their ecosystem. It is particularly important in our area given that our local infrastructure, particularly roads and bridges, require future proofing to deal with the harsher weather systems we are now experiencing while also balancing working with nature in our dynamic river catchments. There aren’t easy solutions to this but new opportunities in planning may give us funding from new developer contributions for some really interesting projects and give us the opportunity to work alongside other agencies and our local farmers on these projects.
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM
I trust Rothbury CAN are aware of the Liberal Democrats’ proposals to tackle the scandalous discharge of sewage into our waterways at a national level. These include replacing Ofwat with a more effective regulator with new powers to hold the water companies to account and banning bonuses for water company executives until sewage dumping ends.
At a local level I believe we need to keep up the pressure on Northumbrian Water to accelerate the investment needed to clean up our waterways and coast and to identify and tackle problem areas. Better quality data is important. You will be aware of the citizen science project, led by the Coquet River Action Group, to test water quality along the length of the Coquet. This will improve the amount of data available and help identify specific problems areas that need to be tackled. If elected, I will work with CRAG, CAN, parish councils and fellow county councillors to ensure issues are highlighted and appropriate action taken.
As a general principle I believe housing developments should not be approved without the necessary infrastructure to support the development, and that includes sewage disposal. Similarly, they should not be approved if there is an increased flood risk, either for the new housing or the river catchment area as a whole, or if the development has not planned adequate mitigation measures such as soak aways, green spaces etc. I intend to make this case in considering any new planning proposals.
As I set out in my second leaflet, it is important we have Neighbourhood Plans in place across the Rothbury Ward as these are the documents where these (and other) requirements can be laid down and applied. I consider it a priority to work with parish councils, community groups and residents to progress and sign off Neighbourhood Plans across the Ward.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT
Sewage has been a problem in all our waterways for decades and despite vigorous campaigns by Fergal Sharkey and many others highlighting the problem very little or in some cases NO ACTION is taken Legislation exists to force companies to minimize pollution and OFWAT the supposed regulator seems reluctant to do anything. This must change, If Councils can use their influence, it can only do good.
Over the years of dealing with planning applications by large construction firms, the question of costs to sewage works improvements arose on a frequent basis.
Developers’ argument for not paying towards this was always the water companies have increased income of water bills so no additional money was needed by them It is a difficult problem to address without Government involvement. By law , water companies have to provide sufficient sewage treatment facilities for all new developments. The only concession the water company has is a sliding time scale to do these works. It will take government legislation to alter this.
Flood risk is a large problem and concern for many people, look along the riverside in Rothbury, the number of properties built on the flood plain. The Environment Agency is responsible for rivers and flooding issues. However they are difficult to deal with and do not respond easily to “local “knowledge. An example of this , LEE SQUARE, houses at Townfoot. The land on which these houses are built was always wet, part of the problem is Coplish Burn, the little stream that is at the bottom of the Woodlands and runs through to Brewery Lane. This tiny burn in summer can turn into a raging torrent in the winter or after heavy rainfall. It has flooded Townfoot on numerous. Part of the problem is it has to flow into the Coquet just above the mart stepping stones , so when the river is in flood Coplish Burn , backs up and causes serious problems. The Environment Agency politely informed me as it was not the river they had no control over this problem. However with a lot of persuasion by me and support from the District Council they had a change of heart and now Coplish is classed as a “critical watercourse “ and is now their responsibility. The houses are built higher than that proposed to help address the flooding problem. It is difficult to control, the “ SUDS “ sustainable urban drainage system scheme has helped but not all areas can implement this . Ground conditions play a big part but it should not be impossible
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Mary Finn. LABOUR I understand the river Coquet was polluted 161 times in 2024 and Northumbria Water has upgraded part of the sewerage network at the cost of £500,000. The river, as should all water ways, be monitored to ensure it is safe and pollutant free. The CEO of Northumbria water’s salary and with bonus’s in July 2024 was £842,000 as customer of Northumbria water I want to understand how this level of remuneration can be justified. Developers should be sharing the cost of the infra structures required in new developments and all planning applications need to be closely scrutinised to ensure flood risk and infra structure considerations are fully explored.
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM
Thank you for raising awareness of this issue. My view is that we should hold those to account who are not abiding by the law and make them pay for any clean-up. Not only do I think that developers should contribute to improvements in sewage infrastructure I think it should be a condition of their planning approval.
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE
It’s illegal to release sewage or waste into a waterways, and regulation is enforced by the Environment Agency. I’m not aware of any current systemic issues relating to effluent release into waterways in Rothbury area. I have worked with the EA in my previous role as an officer in NF&RS, and also since then regarding potential unsafe discharges…. They’re very approachable of those who need to improve their processes and offer advice and support to ensure our waterways are clean and safe. So the way forward in removing sewage from waterways is to report such cases to the EA in the 1st instance and work with them and the alleged offender to ensure compliance. Developers sharing costs…. This shouldn’t be an issue - as if the current sewage system doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate additional homes, they wouldn’t (shouldn’t) have planning consent granted. In more remote rural areas where individual sewage management systems are required they must comply with BS EN 12566 and also subject to planning consents. Where planning permission has been refused due to sewage control issues any developer would have no other option than to work with Northumbrian water to find a compliant solution. Flood risk caused by new development – again, this is an important part of the planning consent process. Run off from potential developments is assessed and responded to during the planning process - saying that, specific local issues can and should be highlighted by those with concerns and raised through the right to response to planning requests process and through the local parish council/county councillor
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Jennifer Wallace GREEN
Developers should be required to contribute to the cost of additional capacity within the system, though this would require Westminster legislation. Note that the fundamental responsibility for providing sufficient capacity remains with Northumbrian Water (income of almost £1bn last year…)
All new developments require SUDs installations to reduce flow and mitigate risk. Northumbrian Water to be pressured to reduce existing surface water entering the treatment works – diversion of road gullies etc to holding ponds No permissions should be granted on flood plains. Beavers! (at least support for any feasibility studies into their effectiveness and any unintended consequences). Although born in Glasgow, having spent half my life in Canada I can vouch for them as being generally wonderful
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
Our rivers and streams are vital to both our ecosystem and our way of life in rural Northumberland. It is completely unacceptable that raw sewage is still being discharged into our waterways in 2024. As a councillor, I will:
This is not just an environmental issue – it’s a public health issue, and I will treat it with the urgency it deserves.
Yes, absolutely. If a development will place further strain on an already overstretched system, it should only be approved if the infrastructure is upgraded to cope – and the developer must share the cost of that upgrade. We can no longer accept development that prioritises short-term profit over long-term sustainability and resilience. If developers wish to benefit from building here, they must also help to build the infrastructure that protects the people and the environment around them. Northumberland’s terrain and increasing severe weather events mean we are already at high risk of flooding in many villages, including Rothbury. As councillor, I will:
We need planning that is based on long-term resilience – not short-term gain.
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Question two: How would you ensure that all residents, particularly those in social or rented housing, have access to solar energy and battery storage to reduce their household bills and reduce global warming?EV Charging: residents who cannot park near enough to their homes to have a home charger. What will you do to ensure these residents can cheaply and efficiently charge their cars? |
Steven Bridgett INDEPENDENT
Simply put, I cannot ensure anything in that regard, no local councillor has that power, and no local council has the funding with which to carry it out on any meaningful scale. That must come from central government both in the form of legalisation and the proper funding to accompany it. We must also take into account the already limited space for parking that exists with ex council housing and affordable housing stock and be on the lookout for newer and better technologies to assist with this. However, with regards to new developments and the provision of EV charging points, this can be conditioned as part of new housing developments and has/is done so by NCC planners. I have recently helped with planning issues that that had arisen in relation to Whittingham and Netherton Village Halls putting solar panels on their buildings. Those issues now overcome; Whittingham is now completed and Netherton will commence very
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM
Given the proven cost savings for householders and the beneficial impact on climate change, I committed, in my first leaflet, to campaign for all new houses to be fitted with solar panels and adequate insulation as a condition of approval and aim for all new houses to have an EPIC rating of C or higher. This is a requirement I would like to see implemented at County Council level but, at the very least, included in local Neighbourhood Plans.
For our existing, and often old, housing stock, I’m aware some Rothbury residents have taken advantage of the existing Government schemes to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. I think more could be done to raise awareness of the schemes and help residents apply. If elected, I would like to discuss with CAN and others how I could support this activity.
I understand the most efficient method of charging EVs is via a home charger, but I recognise this option is not available to many. As a result, it is often those who can least afford it who will end up with higher charging costs. One way of tackling this problem is more workplace charging and more public chargers at car parks, community centres etc where drivers can use the cheaper slow charging option. If elected I will work with other like-minded councillors and council officials to push the case to increase the availability of charging points at council locations and to encourage other workplaces to install charging points in their car parks. I would also welcome any other recommendations or suggestions from CAN, parish councils and residents.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT
Solar energies should be a matter of choice and not as seems to be happening imposed by Government directives. The cost of schemes can be prohibitive and many private land lords are not in the financial position to do this. The house rent would have to increase and that puts further pressure on tenants costs. Social housing is different, the installation costs are generally from some form of Government Grant, but at the end of the day it is the public purse which pays. Battery storage in my opinion has never been properly thought through. Many houses will not be suitable for this either internally or externally. Has fire risk been considered ? Are there any harmful fumes if batteries overcharge ? Does having storage batteries affect your home insurance costs ?
It is never easy adapting older properties to reduce your energy bills and over the years I had discussions with English Heritage, who dealt with Listed Buildings about solar energy and insulation of buildings and they are not very helpful in looking at possible solutions.
EV Charging, this is a very difficult issue in Rothbury. Look at the Main Street and Town foot area. Very limited places to install public charge points and impossible for residents to install them. As I understand current legislation, new build properties have charge points installed, how this can be done in other areas I have no answer too. Under the Chancellors new road fund tax policy EV’s will now have to pay like any other vehicle and looking at the cost of electricity to petrol and deisel costs there are very little saving s to be made.
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Mary Finn. LABOUR
Working in conjunction with the Mayor’s office to fulfil the 5 missions Home to a growing and vibrant economy for all Home of the green energy revolution A welcoming home to global trade A North East we are proud to call home The home of real opportunity
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM
Not sure that anybody at a local level can ‘ensure’ but I can certainly help and incentivise. There is salary threshold below which people do not care about environmental issues (the global figure is circa 12000 usd but it varies across continents and countries) in order to make an impact on any climate issues we need to mobile the masses - and the masses are below the poverty line and can’t afford to care. Lifting people out of poverty will attract more people to the cause. Keeping council tax bills down and allowing more people the freedom to decide how that money is spent will help. That said, all of the above is at the national level so what can we do at the local level? Raising awareness of subsidised schemes for solar panels to those that are entitled will help (as will putting more money in people’s pockets). WRT EV charging points; on a recent trip to London I saw EV charging points embedded within lampposts. This seems, at first glance, to be a simple and cheap solution for those who can’t park close to their residence. I would propose this as a county wide scheme to be trialled in our ward.
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE I know NCC has begun installing solar panels (PVs) on its owned houses. So far over 1200 I believe. NCC has also recently been awarded £9.5m in grants from the Government Warm Homes Programme to help residents reduce energy bills and lower emissions - £3.5million of this (plus an additional £3.5million from NCC) will be used to upgrade up to 400 Council owned homes with more energy efficient systems – so with that in mind, it would be the local representative to argue that a relative amount of that funding is available to, and spent on, housing in the Rothbury area NCC has begun establishing an EV charging network and are targeting areas as a priority where there are known challenges due to residents not having access to off-street parking. NCC has identified initial locations for the first phase of Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure funding which will be delivered through the North East Combined Authority and specifically targets locations for residents without off-street parking. So again, the local representative (in partnership with parish councils and groups like RCAN) should be making a case to bring funding from the second phase of this project to the Rothbury area. Those without driveways, or off-road parking, can also request that NCC installs a channel under the pavement outside their house to charge their EV at the roadside. A caveat to that - there is a charge for this but residents can apply for a grant to help with the cost
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Jennifer Wallace. GREEN
• I would encourage direct discussions between NCC and regional social housing providers to upgrade their existing stock to include PV panels AND solar thermal I would support for any investigation into community-owned power generation. • I would lobby for legislation to upgrade Building Regulations in England to match Scotland, so that there is an obligation for on-site generation. • EV chargers: I would lobby for reduction of VAT on electricity provided by on-street charging points (20%) to match domestic charge Vat rate (currently 5%) • As a means of reducing the overall number of cars on the side of the road, I support any study into the feasibility of EV car-share or car-club schemes in rural areas.
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
Access to affordable, renewable energy should not be a luxury – it should be a basic right. Solar power and battery storage are critical tools in both tackling climate change and reducing household energy costs, especially for those already facing fuel poverty.
As councillor, I will:
I’m particularly interested in how we make our villages more self-sustainable and energy-resilient, with smart battery storage, renewables, and even microgrids for critical infrastructure:
A Community Energy System for Rothbury Ward
1. What’s the Vision? A local, decentralised energy system where electricity is generated, stored and shared within the community — with surplus energy sold back to the national grid. This reduces bills, improves energy security, and creates local jobs and skills.
How Could It Work in Practice?
Solar Power
Wind Power
Micro-Hydro
Anaerobic Digestion (AD)
Battery Storage
How Does It Benefit the Community?
Governance & Funding
Real-World Examples
Next Steps
This is a growing issue in the Rothbury Ward where some homes have no off-street parking. We must ensure the EV transition is fair and accessible.
As your councillor, I will:
EV access shouldn’t depend on your driveway – it should be available to every resident.
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Question Three: Compared to many other counties, the provision for doorstep recycling in Northumberland is extremely limited. What will you do to improve this and increase the proportion of waste that is recycled?
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Steven Bridgett INDEPENDENT
Any kerbside recycling comes down to funding and contracts with recycling companies. There have been some successful trials held within Northumberland that are currently being examined and I would have no hesitation in supporting their roll out in this area but I would first want to make sure that all of the people who live in this area can access all of the council’s existing waste disposal and recycling facilities. Garden waste recycling being the perfect example. Easy to access if you live in Rothbury but currently the residents of Elsdon do not have access to the service. Which in my view needs to be addressed before rolling out new services in other areas. Otherwise, communities like Elsdon will get left even further behind.
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM
I agree the level of recycling in Northumberland is very limited particularly compared with my previous home in Southend which included doorstep collections of glass, food waste, tins and plastics. Clearly that is not a fair comparison given the logistical challenges faced here in Northumberland. But equally clearly more could and should be done.
I’m aware there is a government scheme to extend the doorstep collection of glass nationwide. But we also need to have a conversation and consider options for improving other recycling. This could include more doorstep collections in our urban centres and more recycling points in our rural settings. Residents and community groups should be at the heart of this conversation. I believe it is the role of the county councillor to listen and campaign for improvements, working with like-minded councillors and council officials.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT I have never understood why there was no standard of containers or contents throughout all the U.K. Everywhere seems to have different colours and collection times. The Government has decided to standardize this at last and I think it is sometime in 2026 every household will be getting new containers and contents will be separated differently. How this will work is anybody’s guess and time will tell The biggest problem with any recycling, it is market led, if the demand for certain things is not there , what do you do ?
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Mary Finn. LABOUR
At present Northumberland’s recycling record is disappointing the Labour group is determined to improve this it will rollout improved glass collection for recycling, ban single use plastic in all council buildings and expand the range of items for recycling by working with recycling plants .
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM
Recycling is but one option - we also need to reduce and re-use. Let’s encourage people to use the local dairy. They deliver from an electric vehicle, re-use glass bottles, reduce plastic bottles from supermarkets. I’ve always thought that all new houses should have rubbish disposal that makes it easy to re-cycle. If there were rubbish shoots integrated into kitchens that allowed re-cycling to be sorted inside and then be dispensed to the appropriate bin it would help - we have to make it easy for people.
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE
I disagree that it’s ‘limited’. Many other local authorities have residents using 4 recycle bins, and at face value that appears ‘better’…. NCC has one recycle bin. An example - Stockport Council has 5 bins in total - however the same items are recycled (with the exception of glass). In NCC’s area, the recycled waste items are sorted by NCC at large processing facilities, eg West Sleekburn. in Stockport the local authority requires the householder to sort it – Although Stockport council still has to process that recycled waste. There is an going trial in some parts of Northumberland where glass bins have been given to households to use, and it’s been received well…. and could be rolled out further. I think where the biggest improvement to recycling can be made is to promote it. Outside of household bins we have a large number of recycling points and some excellent large waste facilities that are well managed and focus on recyling NCC regularly re-assesses it’s policies and how those policies are applied, and it’s up to us as residents to push for improvements through councillors if we feel they are needed.
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Jennifer Wallace. GREEN
• The limited provision of recycling has been a deliberate policy decision by the current Tory administration: that decision must be overturned at the earliest opportunity • There is no county-level strategy for reduction of the amount of waste (whether recyclable or not): this must be introduced • Additional doorstep recycling brings issues, eg of space for additional bins: consider hyper-local shared recycling points (car parks, school gates, libraries) as part of the wider solution • Not within the council’s power, but I’d lobby Government for the introduction of national can and bottle deposit schemes (as in many other countries)
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
This is an issue I’ve heard around the ward, and I completely agree – Northumberland is falling behind when it comes to recycling, particularly doorstep collection.
As your councillor, I will:
We need a recycling system that matches the commitment of our residents – many of whom are already making great efforts despite the lack of infrastructure. We also need to invest in innovation, such as smart bins, mobile collection schemes, and local sorting facilities to reduce the distance recyclables have to travel.
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Question Four: Hedge-cutting and chemical spraying. What are your views on when hedges should be cut, and how?Will you join with us to request an end to the spraying of pollinator killing weedkiller, by NCC on our paths and building edges, etc?
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Steven Bridgett INDEPENDENT
Firstly, if a hedge or a tree that is in the roadside verge is causing a visual obstruction to motorists or damaging vehicles as they pass, this needs to be addressed at the earliest opportunity. There are also clear rules that are already in place regarding when the council can cut back hedges to avoid bird nesting. I would also consider, subject to my first point, that we also look at avoiding cutting them back in the Autumn when many hedges have berries and fruits on them, something I know many of our local farmers already do. We could also, subject to my first point, look at a trial of sequential cutting of the sides of hedges to improve bird habitats. Again, there are many great examples of this by many of our local farmers. In relation to the use of weedkillers by NCC; I must start off by saying that I do not know enough about neonicotinoids to know all of the ins and outs, but pollinating insects are essential to our survival, not least to our local farmers who need them to pollinate their crops. I would only support the use of pesticides by NCC in certain situations and under strict controls (e.g. invasive species such as giant hogweed control or when buildings or structures maybe damaged) when the benefit outweighs the costs. I would be happy to support the trials of less harmful pesticides by NCC.
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM
I’m told the best time for hedge cutting for wildlife is the late winter months before the end of February, leaving some sections uncut for nesting. Personally, I would always recommend being observant about the wildlife in your garden in the weeks before cutting hedges.
I understand Northumberland County Council uses some weedkillers that are based on glyphosate that, although licensed for use in parks and public spaces, could have a negative impact on pollinators. I also understand other councils, including some in the North East, have started using an organic alternative. I think we should be learning from their experience and consider the evidence to present a case for change here and am willing to offer my support for this.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT
Hedge cutting, We have miles of hedges and I think the cutting season is about right. In the old days when hedges were cut manually it was a winter time job on farms, hedges could be re-laid to make the fields stock proof and nesting birds weren’t disturbed. Modern machinery makes a very good job and I think the countryside looks better when this is done. Weed killer is a problem but in certain areas it must be done. There must now be some form of weedkiller that is less harmful to all wildlife. I am no expert in this but I am certain a solution can be found.
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Mary Finn. LABOUR
Support initiatives with the Wildlife Trust to educate and inform myself and others about how this is best achieved
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM Incentivise the Guardians of the Countryside (farmers) to help and advise - they are the experts. I fully support the campaign to end spraying.
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE
Hedge cutting is best carried out late in the back end of the year – to ensure fruits/berries are available for the birds that rely on hedgerow fruit. Or very early spring to avoid nesting birds’ preparations.…. But what’s a ‘hedge’? If we are talking about roadside hedges and hedges used for stock control, there’s clearly a need to maintain size and growth. And in the case of roadside hedges maintenance is essential to maintain good visibility for road users…. Over the last handful of years I’ve noticed an increasing number of uncut hedges on some of our minor roads which has an impact on visibility and road safety, especially for walkers and cyclists. I think that needs to be improved. If it’s a hedgerow not for those purposes, eg alongside stock fencing or planted for the purpose of biodiversity… is there a need to cut them at all? – ultimately, it’s for the owner to decide how to manage their hedgerows in a way they think best…. So with that in mind, groups like RCAN can make information available to landowners, so however they decide to manage their hedgerows it’s from an informed position. The use of weedkillers to manage weeds on paved footpaths and at building edges is done out of necessity in most instances, I’d argue. I’ve not seen the risk assessment regarding footpath spraying and what environmental impacts it considers, or what is currently used as a weedkiller. But I’d certainly support CAN in questioning the scope of weedkilling and/or looking for viable alternatives to managing weed control where it’s currently carried out.
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Jennifer Wallace. GREEN
• NCC own very few roadside hedges, so have limited ability to directly control cutting. However I would seek to form good relations with farmers and landowners, and use those channels to open discussions on the timing & nature of hedge-cutting • I’ aware that NCC have been promising for at least five years, that they are trialling alternatives to glyphosate: I’m aware of no results that have been published • If elected I would take this issue directly into the Council chamber at the first opportunity
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
Absolutely – I fully support the move toward nature-friendly land management, especially when it comes to protecting biodiversity, pollinators, and natural habitats.
Hedge cutting:Hedges are critical nesting sites for birds and habitats for insects. I believe hedges should only be cut outside of the bird nesting season (March to August) unless there's a safety issue (e.g. overgrown road junctions). I would support clear local guidance and monitoring to ensure this is followed in practice.
Chemical spraying:Yes – I would support efforts to end the routine spraying of herbicides, especially those known to harm pollinators, on verges, pavements, and around public buildings. These practices are outdated and harmful.
As councillor, I will:
I would be happy to join with you and others to campaign for a more sustainable, ecological approach in how our green spaces and roadsides are maintained.
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Question Five: What would you do to increase biodiversity at the Parish level?
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Steven Bridgett INDEPENDENT
We are really lucky to have a lot of experienced and qualified ecologists living in our area and as councillor, I have access to the knowledge, experience and advice of a team of ecologists at NCC. Advice that I regularly seek out. When planning projects relating to biodiversity, I look for evidence, good input from the above ecologists and local residents, particularly those farmers who own and manage many tens of thousands of acres of our area. We have a lot of amazing things that already exist in our area, pockets of species rich grassland all around, waxcap grasslands on grazing land, an internationally important grassland up at Barrowburn in the Upper Coquet Valley, hedges, an incredible SSSI river, woodland, peat heath and bogs. Most looked after and managed by our local farmers, including the producer of the famous Northumberland Meadow mix of wildflower seeds. We don’t shout about this great work enough and we should. Understanding how it all works together in the Coquet, Aln and Rede Valleys is so important. What is needed in one place will be totally different a mile away. · I have always supported strong mitigation and habitat creation in new development. · Community schemes can be great but clearing wild spaces big or small concerns me. Nature is quite frequently untidy and can sometimes look scruffy but at the same time provide a wide range of benefits to a number of species. What was done at the bottom of Rothbury First School bank is a great example of this. It may look pretty now but from an ecological and biodiversity perspective it’s now barren compared to what it was. · Complaints about open views to the river also concern me when riverside trees are so important to stabilise banks, create cool spaces for migrating fish and nurseries for fry. · I support community education and engagement, and I believe a great example of this could be some of our local school children visiting some of our local farms to understand the important work carried out by many of our local farmers to improve our local environment. · I am very keen to see a local toad patrol created similar to what has been successfully developed in the Seahouses and Bamburgh areas to help improve the survival rates of this important species when they come to cross our roads. It is important work like this, that volunteers carry out, that can really help with the survival of our native species. A great example of this is our local red squirrel groups. · I am happy to support the planting of trees in our area, but this needs to be in the right place. We have sites for upland waders that need to be kept free of trees and hedges. I am absolutely passionate about supporting our farming communities and championing the work they do for nature. The type of farming we have here is not industrial in scale, it’s hard work, and the ecosystem benefits are not properly rewarded
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM
Parish councils should have biodiversity policies and action plans in place. One of my first priorities, if elected, will be to engage with parish councils across the ward to understand the policies in place and ensure good practice is shared. This applies particularly to biodiversity plans because much activity, such as the need to remove invasive species along the Coquet, cuts across parish boundaries and requires a co-ordinated effort.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT
Parish land is at a premium, It controls the Village greens and has small areas of Common under it ‘s ownership. It is responsible for the closed churchyards, current burial ground and rents small amounts of land from Northumberland Estates which covers, allotments, riverside play area and the right to walk on the riverside. This does limit what the Parish Council can do. A number of years ago it was decided in the closed churchyards to let nature take its course and not cut the grass, This did not go down well. There may be some small areas that could be used but that is a decision the Parish Council would have to take.
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Mary Finn. LABOUR
Support initiatives with the Wildlife Trust to educate and inform myself and others about how this is best achieved
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM
Biodiversity policies are set at the National level who provide the lead. We need to ensure that the policies are appropriately funded and acted upon. I fear that there is little that can be done at the Parish level but I would be keen to support any initiatives that are suggested.
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE
Things that can add to biodiversity at parish level – I’d like to see more trees planted. I’m not talking about blanket coverage of productive farmland, but localised planting. An NCC initiative currently available to parishes, schools and organisations like RCAN supplies free packs of trees of up to 120 (a total of 15,000 per year) and also for residents to apply for smaller numbers for gardens. Applications for the next phase will reopen later in the year and I would encourage our Parish councils and school in the Rothbury area to apply…. Regarding schools - introducing the importance of the environment at a young age will mean the next generation will grow up with proactive view of its importance. I’d like to see the re-establishment of applications by the government for Sustainable Farming Initiative stewardship schemes (SFI). This is a massive hit for both farming businesses and also biodiversity development…. It’s a huge own goal by the government in terms of working towards it’s claimed desire to promote sustainable farming practices – at present, its hill farms that are most hit by this SFI suspension with current applications at well below 10% of uptake before new applications were stopped - Rothbury ward has a significant proportion of it’s farms falling in to that category, so it directly impacts the area. As a local councillor, it’s obviously not possible to change national government policy, but it is possible to lobby local MP’s and (as part of the whole elected council) government, to reestablish SFI applications.
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Jennifer Wallace. GREEN
• As above I would liaise directly with landowners & farmers to open discussions around reductions in grass-cutting & hedge-trimming • I would ensure that NCC take a more proactive approach to biodiversity on land that they own or manage, including the possibility of using council-owned land to provide space for Biodiversity Net Gain required of developers from outside the county. • Encourage and support community orchards, which have potential to be some of the richest biodiversity habitats.
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
This is a cause close to my heart – my husband & I have recently taken on an allotment in Callaly, and I’m passionate about working with nature, not against it. Seeing the difference that even small planting decisions make to pollinators and soil health has only deepened my commitment to restoring local biodiversity.
At a parish level, I would advocate for a range of initiatives, including: Pollinator-friendly planting – supporting bee corridors, wildflower verges, and community gardens in underused spacesNo Mow May & reduced verge cutting to allow wild habitats to thriveTree planting and native hedgerows to support birds, insects, and biodiversity corridorsEnding the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides in public spacesEncouraging schools and community groups to get involved in habitat creation and nature educationSupporting local food growing initiatives and sustainable land use, including protecting and enhancing parish allotments
I believe that parish and county councils have a responsibility to set the tone when it comes to caring for our shared environment. I would work closely with local groups and residents to help create a joined-up plan for biodiversity and climate resilience across the Rothbury Ward.
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Question Six: How do you feel about the purchase, by the Wildlife Trusts, of the Rothbury Estate?
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Steven Bridgett INDEPENDENT
I should point out that the Wildlife Trusts have not purchased the Rothbury Estate, they have purchased 1/7th of the estate thus far and are in the process of trying to raise funds to purchase the remaining 8,000 acres. My first priority always has been and always will be to the residents I represent. I am very worried about the potential impacts on local farmers and to local businesses. Not least the potential impact for a future visitor centre on the estate would have that would take away footfall to the shops and businesses in Rothbury and Thropton. There is quite a lot of fear about what the Wildlife Trust have planned for the estate and their failure to alleviate those fears by pandering to their usual echo chamber, of only people who share their views, has done little to help the situation. This can’t be ‘us and them’ and can’t be habitat restoration where local people lose their livelihoods and homes. That worries me. And I am not alone in that concern about finding a balance. It’s potentially a huge fundamental change in our community. But I am open to listening to what the Wildlife Trust have to say, just as I am interested in listening to what other interested parties have to say.
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM I very much welcome the purchase of the Estate by the Wildlife Trust. All their public pronouncements to date have been extremely encouraging and I’m looking forward to the public meeting with Mike Pratt in the Jubilee Hall on 24th April to hear more about their plans and vision.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT This came as quite a surprise to everyone when the Percy Family put this estate on the market. It is difficult to understand why after hundreds of years they chose to do so. There was much speculation as to who would purchase this and if the new owners would make changes. Having lived here all of my life I have seen changes to this landscape, Simonside , trees planted by the Forestry Commission, along with Kidlandlee , Thrunton woods and Harwood. Much of this planting now being cut down for the timber crop it was to provide. The reduction of livestock over the last 50 years and different farming practices have altered the area, slowly ,but it has changed . I sincerely hope the Wildlife Trusts will talk too and listen to local concerns. There should be no them or us attitudes taken. We all want what is best for the area but change is inevitable, it always has been and always will be.
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Mary Finn. LABOUR
I am pleased it appears future of the estate is secured and I look forward to the meeting in Rothbury on April 24 when I understand the Trust will asking for input from the community and discussing their plans .
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM
I don’t know too much about the proposed sale other than the fundraising effort to raise £30million (the annual debt interest payment of the council) I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and your team to learn more. What is it that the current owners are not doing and how will the new owners address any deficiencies. Once the £30million has been raised are there any other plans to raise funds for the running of the estate and executing your plans?
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE
Since the estate was announced for sale, many have had concerns over it’s future. Was it gong to be Brian May, or other wealthy individual buyer? And what would they do with it? As we now all know, it’s now partly owned (with the option to buy the rest) by The Wildlife Trusts (WLT). What concerns me at present is how their ownership might impact on those living on the estate, especially those on one of the 12 farms on the estate. The WLT has spoken about low impact sustainable farming and said “we’re looking forward to working with local people to create an exemplar of how farming, economy, nature and community are integrated”. But what will this look like? Does it means farm businesses will be required to reduce sheep/cattle stock? Move to organic farming practices? I grew up and worked for many on our hill farm so know how hard it can be to make living from it - given now that the government has stopped new applications for funding under the Sustainable Farming Initiative, where does that leave tenant farmers on the estate? feeling concerned and vulnerable about the future sustainability of their business - And would The WLT support applications for it’s tenants should they re-open? The WLT recently celebrated the arrival of ‘Casanova’, a Red Luing bull that will “boost songbird numbers and biodiversity’”, while suggesting their aim is to reduce stock levels to help ‘improve biodiversity’. I think there’s a contradiction there that needs discussion. The aim to increase and support native species in the area is fantastic…. But as it is at present there’s a vacuum of information to explain how that will be worked towards with the community having their views considered…. And that has to include the views of farmers who live and work there (some for generations) and have a huge knowledge and understanding of the landscape. It’s a little known fact that the heather moorlands we see around us today aren’t the result of nature on it’s own, but largely as a result of farming practices over the last few 1000 years that continue today. The WLT are holding a presentation evening at the Jubilee Hall on Thursday 24th April at 7.30pm that will hopefully be filling the gap’s, clarifying their vision and explaining how the development of that vision will impact/affect those currently living there. They want to work with the community… hopefully this will be the beginning of that collaborative process.
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Jennifer Wallace. GREEN
I welcome the purchase as a generational opportunity to alter the approach to the upland areas for the benefit of the community and of the environment, for an increase in sustainable tourism, for an opportunity for large-scale rewilding, and for the reintroduction of native species.
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
I welcome the purchase of the Rothbury Estate by the Wildlife Trusts as a huge opportunity for conservation, education, and community access — if it’s handled in the right way. The Trusts have a strong track record of restoring habitats, protecting biodiversity, and opening up spaces for people to enjoy nature. If their plans for the estate reflect those values, it could bring real benefits to the area — from improving environmental resilience to creating local jobs and learning opportunities. However, I believe that any major land ownership change must also involve genuine community consultation. It’s important that local residents, farmers, and businesses are actively engaged in shaping how the estate is managed, and that existing access and land use rights are respected.
If elected, I will:
This could be a transformational moment for the area – but it must be rooted in transparency, collaboration and respect.
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What do you feel are the most important aspects in representing the Rothbury Ward? What do you feel the main role of a County Councillor is? |
Steven Bridgett INDEPENDENT
The people. I like how our community is made up of all kinds of people, those who have been born and bred here and those who have moved here to enjoy our way of life. So many people come together in so many ways to create our community. Volunteering and making things happen. Especially in times of crisis when we all pull together. Helping constituents to make sure they get they support and help they may need. This is easier for me as a local independent who knows the area and is free from the constraints of any party politics.
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Colin Martin Davis. LIB DEM
I trust you get a sense from my responses about my approach to the role of County Councillor. I see the role as both a representative and a leader of the community. That means listening to resident’s concerns and priorities and bringing parish councils, community groups and residents together to identify solutions. It means campaigning for solutions that need to be applied across the County in the County Council and with council officials.
Having represented the UK internationally, I do not underestimate the commitment this requires. It requires attendance at County Council and parish council meetings and consultation with and communication back to residents of the outcomes. I also know, from experience, that to deliver change it is necessary to build relationships and alliances with like-minded people wherever they come from. That is why it is so important to be present and to engage. I do not see how anyone can fully represent their residents without committing to this basic requirement of the role.
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Peter Dawson. INDEPENDENT
Rural areas can be challenging and living here I am aware of what most of them are. Having experience, I know how to make a case to Councilor’s living in Urban areas where they don’t have problems accessing hospital care , children travelling miles to school, disruption of power supplies or phone signals. Roads impassable by flooding or snow. I am aware of what we are missing out on, lack of a pedestrian crossing at Townfoot EV. Charging points NO traffic calming measures at Beggars rigg NO speed indicator cameras other than beside the top school. WHY ? In the 16 years Northumberland County Council was formed has none of this happened. Better transport and road links, better housing that meets local need , not something Government imposes on us. Better care for older residents, what can we do to keep the younger generation here The list is endless Your Councillor can do these things for you.
A County Councillor’s main role is to represent the public, that is YOU. It is a very responsible position, not only does he take decisions on your behalf, he is your public face and the community’s voice. He must act within the Councils rules and legal duties and also attain higher standards of conduct than the general public expects.
Over the years I have been involved in local politics the decisions I have taken have been for the benefit of the community I was elected to serve. . I have always wanted to get things done, with your support let me try to do so again
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Mary Finn. LABOUR
Anyone representing Rothbury needs to respect the diversity and independence of the community listen to all recognising they are the representative of the whole community. The main role is to be a vocal advocate for the whole constituency regardless of how individuals voted or chose not to
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Mark Anthony Hope. REFORM
At Council meetings the main roll is to hold the council to account, balance the budget and keep council tax rises to a minimum. Outside of Council Meetings County Councillor should attend all ward Parish Council Meetings (observational roll only) to learn what the important local issues are.
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Paul James HOWEY. CONSERVATIVE My views are as I’ve presented them here, but saying that, it’s important the elected representative reflects the views of the community and listens to argument, views and opinion that might differ from their own…. So it’s a partnership - with the parish councils, groups such as RCAN, Northumberland National Park, The Wildlife Trusts and all those who live and work in the area. Whatever the objectives of the elected councillor, they need to be able to engage with the local authority, it’s administration and it’s committees to try deliver those objectives
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Jennifer Wallace. GREEN
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Karen Marie WEECH. MAJORITY
For me, the most important aspect of representing the Rothbury Ward is listening to every part of the community – and acting on what I hear. This ward is made up of many villages and hamlets, each with its own character, strengths, and challenges. Good representation means making sure no voice is left out, and no area is overlooked.
Here’s what I believe matters most: 1. Truly listening – to everyone Not just those who agree with me, and not just the loudest voices. I’ve committed to holding regular drop-ins, quarterly assemblies, and ward-wide polls so that people shape decisions, not just respond to them after they’re made. 2. Getting results, not just promises I come from a business background, not politics. I know how to deliver. I want to help bring in funding, investment, and support for affordable housing, transport, road repairs, and climate resilience. 3. Standing up for all parts of the ward From Netherton to Snitter, Alnham to Thropton, I believe in fair representation across the whole ward, not just Rothbury centre. Every community deserves to be heard and supported. 4. Protecting what makes this place special Whether it's our environment, our public services, or our local businesses – I’ll work to ensure we can pass on a vibrant, sustainable Rothbury Ward to the next generation. 5. Doing politics differently I’m independent. I’m here to represent people, not parties. That means no party whip, no hidden agenda – just honesty, openness, and a genuine commitment to serving the community.
The main role of a County Councillor is to represent their community’s needs and priorities at the county level — and to do so with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
A good councillor acts as a bridge between the people and the council, making sure that local voices shape decisions around key services like:
But it's more than just sitting in meetings. A great councillor is also: A listener, staying in regular contact with residentsA voice, speaking up for all parts of the ward — not just the loudestA collaborator, working with community groups, parish councils, and local businessesA scrutiniser, making sure spending and decisions are in the public interestAnd most importantly — a servant of the people, not a party or personal agenda
If elected, I’ll approach this role with real commitment to our community — doing everything I can to be accessible, responsive, and effective in delivering what matters to the Rothbury Ward
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THE LETTERS FROM THE CANDIDATES
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