An evening meeting has been called to give residents the chance to have their say on Stobhill housing plans.
Planning Inspector Pete Drew is currently hearing an appeal by Barratt David Wilson Homes and Tees Valley Housing to build 396 homes on a field between the A196 and A192.
The inquiry is taking place in Morpeth Town Hall from Tuesday to Friday this fortnight, sitting between 9.30am and 5pm each day, but Mr Drew was anxious to ensure that all local residents can air their views and has decided to hold an evening session on Tuesday.
It will be held in the Town Hall Ballroom, from 7pm.
Town and county councillor Andrew Tebbutt urged members of the public to attend to show their feelings on the application.
He said: “All local councillors would say that it is very important that people come along if they want to express their views and make sure the inspector knows how they feel.
“While it is part of the inquiry, the inspector has said that as it is for members of the public, it will be more relaxed and informal than the formal proceedings for the rest of the inquiry.
“It won’t be a debate, it will be people addressing the inspector and the main parties. There won’t be any discussion. It is an opportunity to tell the inquiry what the issues are about the development.
“People don’t need to register in advance, just come along on the night. Everybody will be allowed to have their say, that’s the whole point.
“Given the numbers turning up at the start of the inquiry on Tuesday, we do expect quite a lot of people to be there.”
l For a report of the hearing so far, turn to Page 6.