A total of 78 residents attended last night’s Community Meeting. To everyone who came along, thank you.
As was highlighted during the meeting, that thanks is really on behalf of the future residents of Hunwick. Those who gave up their time last night will help shape what our village looks like, not just for us, but for generations to come.
It is important to record that the meeting was convened by four interested villagers. We made it clear from the outset that we are not planning experts. However, our experience from previous planning applications and objections has shown that Hunwick needs a small group of residents who are willing to monitor developments and keep the community informed.
Nigel and I also explained that, while we had taken a leading role in organising this first meeting, we would not be able to take on the level of responsibility that we did during previous planning applications. We therefore asked for volunteers who would be willing to join a steering/working group to help take this work forward. Encouragingly, a number of people came forward during the meeting and offered their support.
What Was the Meeting About?
In simple terms, Durham County Council is required to prepare a new County Durham Plan.
Hunwick is surrounded by land that has been purchased by speculative landowners. Their primary interest is not farming or protecting the countryside, but the possibility that, one day, the land could receive planning permission and increase significantly in value. Landowners have already put forward approximately 23 hectares of land around Hunwick as being suitable for development.
These sites are now being assessed to determine whether they should be included in the new County Durham Plan.
Two separate processes are currently running in parallel. The Scoping Consultation, which is open now, asks residents what they believe is important when assessing future development. The views expressed through this consultation will help Durham County Council decide the planning principles that should be applied when assessing potential development sites.
The meeting highlighted that the first opportunity for residents to make their views known is by taking part in the Scoping Consultation, which closes on 17 August 2026.
How to Take Part
Step 1 – Sign up
https://placemaker.durham.urbanintelligence.co.uk/consultations/sign-up/
Step 2 – Log in
https://placemaker.durham.urbanintelligence.co.uk/consultations/login
Step 3 – Complete the consultation
https://placemaker.durham.urbanintelligence.co.uk/p/document/9/
Important: After answering each question, remember to click the “Submit” button, otherwise your response will not be recorded.
Over to You
Hunwick has no Parish Council to speak on behalf of the village. That means every resident’s voice matters.
If we want future development to reflect the needs of our community, with the right infrastructure, services and protection for our countryside, we all need to take a few minutes to complete the consultation.
Please don’t assume someone else will do it. Your response could help shape the future of Hunwick.