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Blyth Town CouncilResidents’ NewsletterMeet your new MayorArmed Forces CovenantNew and upgraded play facilities Blyth Town CouncilIssue 10Summer 2025 Mensajería

A letter from the new MayorDavid Swinhoe, Mayor of BlythDear Residents of Blyth,Wow—what an honour it is to write to you today as your newly elected mayor. I'm honestly humbled by the trust placed in me, and I just want to start by saying a big thank you. It means the world to have this opportunity to represent and serve a place as special as Blyth.This town is something truly unique. From our amazing small businesses to the families who’ve been here for generations—and even those who are just starting to make Blyth their home—there’s a real sense of heart and community here that you don’t nd just anywhere. It’s not just where we live; it’s where we belong.In the months ahead, my team and I will be digging into the issues that matter most. We’re here to listen, learn, and work hard on your behalf. Whether it's improving local services, supporting our economy, or making Blyth an even better place to raise a family, we’re committed to doing our very best.But more than anything, I want to be the kind of mayor who hears you. I believe that the best ideas often come from everyday conversations—from chats in the street, emails from concerned residents, or even a quick hello when passing. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—I genuinely want to know what matters to you.I’m really excited about what we can build together. Let’s move forward with hope, energy, and a deep pride in our town. Blyth is already an incredible place—and together, I believe we can make it even better.With gratitude and a whole lot of enthusiasm,DavidMayor of BlythA letter from the outgoing MayorAileen BarrassWhat a year it’s been – one I’ll always remember with a full heart. I’m so proud to have been chosen to represent my hometown – it truly has been the honour of a lifetime. From the many special moments shared with so many of you, to the unforgettable evening lighting the Beacon on VE Day and signing the Armed Forces Covenant, I’ve made memories I’ll treasure forever. Thank you for making this year so special – and don’t worry, you’ll still nd me up on the Isabella Heap! Aileen x2 Blyth Town Council

What does Blyth Town Council do? Working in Blyth, for a better BlythBlyth Town Council is one of 149 local councils in Northumberland. It was created in 2009, after Blyth Valley Borough Council was dissolved.We are the rst tier of local government for residents in Blyth and the largest of all local councils in Northumberland, below are the Town Council's key responsibilities.In collaboration with Northumberland County Council, we also address environmental concerns, maintain public spaces, and supports community initiatives. Enforcement and Environmental ServicesBlyth Town Council funds an Enforcement Ocer ve days a week to address local issues including Fly-tipping, littering, dog fouling, abandoned vehicles and waste accumulationAllotmentsFor information on allotments, please refer to page 4Bus SheltersThe council oversees the inspection and cleaning of 88 bus shelters in various locations, ensuring they remain well-maintained for public use.Play Areas and Public SeatingThe council regularly inspects and maintains 19 local play areas and public seating. These eorts ensure spaces are safe and enjoyable for residents.Community GrantsBlyth Town Council oers Community Grants to support local organisations. Interested groups can apply through the council's grant application process.Planning ConsultationThough Northumberland County Council is the planning authority, Blyth Town Council plays a consultative role in local planning issues, representing residents' interests and is developing a local neighbourhood plan.War MemorialsThe Town Council is responsible for maintaining war memorials at Ridley Park, Newsham Pavilion, and Cowpen, ensuring they are well cared for and preservedEventsLocal community focused events are planned throughout the year and free of charge for all to attend. They include our Easter festival, Blyth Live and the Fireworks display.3 Blyth Town CouncilOur partnership with Northumberland County Council Blyth Town Council works in partnership with Northumberland County Council to ensure the town receives high-quality local services. While Northumberland County Council provides core services across the area, Blyth Town Council enhances these provisions with additional services specically tailored to the needs of our community. These enhanced services include:Weed Control – Targeted weed management across public spaces.Bin Emptying and Cleaning – More frequent emptying and maintenance of public bins.Litter Control – Additional eorts to keep streets and public areas clean.Weekend Operatives – Stang to maintain services and cleanliness over weekends.Summer and Winter Bedding – Planting and maintenance to enhance the town’s appearance.Bus Shelter Cleaning – Regular cleaning of shelters for a more pleasant travel experience.This partnership ensures that Blyth remains a clean, welcoming, and vibrant town for residents and visitors alike.This is reviewed each nancial year through the environment committee.What to do if you have an issue with a Blyth Town Council service?Call 01670 361668 #2or info@blythtowncouncil.gov.uk

PLOTS AVAILABLE FROM£84.75 PER YEARBAGIT.BINIT.THANKYOU.#loveyourtownCLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG OR FACE UP TO A£1000 FINE IF YOU SEE DOG FOULING PLEASE REPORT ITnland.cc/x Allotments* Bebside* Beatrice* Wensleydale* 10th Avenue* Delaval Gardens* Laverock PlacePlots at Bolam, Newsham, 20th Ave and South Farm are managed by Associations. Please apply via our website for these sites and your information will be passed to them to contact you. 4 Blyth Town CouncilTo apply for an allotment please visitblythtowncouncil.gov.uk/allotments

Play Area Refurbishment and Replacement ProgrammeWe’d like to update residents on how we manage and improve our local play areas and open spaces.Each nancial year, we review our programme to potentially refurbish one of our play areas. This approach ensures that all play areas receive ongoing attention over time while making the most ecient use of our resources. The chosen play area for that year would undergo a range of improvements to enhance its facilities and accessibility.We understand that many residents are keen to see more accessible features and additional amenities in their local areas. We appreciate these suggestions and welcome continued input from the community. All enquiries and ideas related to our play areas are reviewed and considered by our Environment Commit-tee.Your feedback is valuable in shaping our future plans and ensuring our play areas meet the needs of all residents. If you have any questions or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us or attend one of our committee meetings.Recent works include: OurPlayAreasAxwell DriveBowes StreetBriardale Road BroadwayBurns AvenueChase Farm DriveChestnut AvenueCottingwood GreenIsabella Skate ParkIsabella Play SpaceKitty BrewsterLaverock PlaceLindsay AvenueMilleld GardensMulberry CloseNewsham Farm North Farm Olga PottsSouth Beach &Teen TrailSt John’s MUGA5 Blyth Town CouncilArtists Impression Cottingwood Green Play Area(See image below) Isabella Play SpaceSt Johns Muga Ogle Drive SkateparkAxwell Drive Play AreaKitty Brewster Play AreaChestnut Play AreaSouth Beach Play AreaBroadway Play Area- Opening July 2025* (may be subject to changes)- Opened June 2025- Refurbished May 2025- Opened February 2025- Refurbished October 2024- Opened October 2023- Refurbished July 2023- Refurbished September 2022- Opened June 2021SEE something SAY somethingWe encourage residents to report any concerns or instances of damage or vandalism to help us maintain the high standards of our play areas.If you notice an issue, please contact us at 01670 361668 or blythtowncouncil.gov.uk/playareas

Energising Blyth UpdateSummer 2025Improved walking and cycling routesImproved signage and connectivity Welcome to the latest update about work to improve your town from the Energising Blyth Partnership. Find out more below about projects making Blyth a great place to live, work and invest.Thank you to all businesses, residents, and community and voluntary groups for their support and patience during the transformation in the town centre. Market Pavilion and Market Place works are on track for opening this summer. Sign up for updates & information on the Market Pavilion website www.marketpavilion.co.uk• 3 screen cinema, studios, creative space, café, performance and event space, landscaping, gardens and improved drainage. • Significant investment in greenery and flood resilience measures under the Market Place.Construction of new culture venue Market Pavilion Artists Impression of the new Energy Central InstituteImproving your Homes and Neighbourhoods• A dedicated “empty homes team” in Blyth are working with property owners to bring unoccupied properties back into use. They have helped to bring 146 properties back into use to date with more in the pipeline. • Work is well underway to improve 72 properties in Bowes Court on track to complete later this year. They will help to create energy eicient, comfortable, sustainable properties which benefit both the residents and the environment. Bridge Street Open for Business• Bridge Street improvements are now complete, there’s a few parts of Bridge St where we have laid temporary surfaces as we need to finish them o later to tie everything together with other schemes.• Were working on Quay Road currently to make this part of town more welcoming, safe, connected and accessible • Works are on track to be completed this AutumnFunded by: Blyth Town Centre Update 6

Market Pavilion: More than a Cinema Opening SoonFunded by: Things are on track for Blyth's brand new leisure and hospitality venue. We're so excited to show you what we've been working on and we're confident you'll make Market Pavilion your first stop for widescreen entertainment in the town. The new venue will be screening all the latest films, on their release and celebrang the best of Brish, Hollywood and Independent tles. Whether you're into the biggest blockbusters, quality drama or travelling to a galaxy far, far away, prepare to take this journey at the Market Pavilion. What's more, it's going to be a social and events space looking out onto a reimagined, tree-lined Market Place. With a programme to be announced soon, the venue is set to open in August so follow Market Pavilion socials or sign up for updates on the website below. See you at the movies!7

Secretary of State for Education Oicially Opens the Energy Central Learning Hub &Free Taster Events for school leaversFunded by: Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, oicially opened the new Learning Hub on Friday 6th June.Part of the Energy Central Campus, the new centre is developing the clean energy workforce of the future. The centre is delivering learning and training courses including through three key providers on site – Northumberland Skills, Port Training Services and Bede Academy. A new Visitor Centre to welcome community and visitors to learn more about how Blyth is spearheading the next generation of clean energy sector workers will open later this year.Paul Cottiss, Curriculum lead for the advanced manufacturing and renewable energy course said;"The career opportunities are huge in these sectors. Our course is aimed predominantly at 16 – 19-year-olds. If you are interested in developing your knowledge and skills in these exciting job areas in Blyth, then please book your place and find out more.“Find out more:https://www.northumberlandskills.co.uk/energy https://www.energycentralcampus.co.uk/Looking for an Exciting Career, starting here in Blyth? If you're exploring career options in renewable energy or advance manufacturing, why not taste before you learn?Northumberland Skills deliver a range of courses from the Learning Hub right here in Blyth and have arranged some short insight sessions. They are free and will give you all the information to start your future career.• Renewable Energy, School Leavers Taster Event - Wednesday 18th June, Join one of three slots. 1 hour session either 4-5pm, 5-6pm or 6-7 pm.• Renewable Energy, School leavers Taster Event - Saturday 5th July. Join one of three slots. 1 hour session either 10-11am, 11- 12am or 12 – 1pmWho are they for?Ideal for young people completing their GCSEs, come and find out more from our friendly and experienced team of lecturers.Where are they running?Courses will be run at the Energy Central Learning Hub, Quay Road NE24 3PBTo enquire about the course, please email: info@energycentralcampus.co.uk8

Get Involved with Blyth Celebrates – Be part of Something Amazing!Funded by: About Energising Blyth - The projects in this update are part of Energising Blyth, a £95m regeneration programme to grow, renew and connect the town delivered by Northumberland County Council. It includes projects to improve the town centre, deliver new jobs and learning opportunities, and investment to drive the clean energy revolution in the UK. This is alongside other investment across the town including the Northumberland Line, Northumberland Energy Park and the Heart of Blyth initiative. The programme is funded by UK Government, Northumberland County Council and North East Combined Authority with support from a range of partners. Find out more: Website: www.northumberland.gov.uk/energisingblyth Email: energisingblyth@northumberland.gov.uk Telephone: 0345 600 64009

Blyth Town Council Signs Armed Forces Covenant at VE Day CommemorationSaturday 3 May 2025Blyth Town Council has formally pledged its support for the Armed Forces community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant during VE Day commemorations on Blyth Quayside.The Covenant was signed by the Town Mayor and Commander David King of the Royal Navy, in a ceremony attended by Dr Caroline Pryer, Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, and Cllr Daniel Carr, Deputy Civic Head of Northumberland County Council.10 Blyth Town CouncilThe Armed Forces Covenant is a national promise to ensure that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated with fairness and respect. Blyth Town Council’s commitment highlights the value it places on serving personnel, veterans, and military families, and its dedication to supporting them in meaningful ways.The signing reects Blyth’s strong military connections, from its strategic role in both World Wars to its ongoing ties with the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. Many residents have served, and the town continues to honour this legacy through veterans' groups and commemorative events.The ceremony featured the Royal British Legion Blyth’s National and Branch Standards and concluded with a community parade led by the Fusiliers Band, uniting the town in remembrance and celebration.This pledge ensures continued recognition and support for Blyth’s armed forces community.

Blyth Heroes Recognised11 Blyth Town CouncilNorthumberland has paid tribute to some of its most dedicated and seless residents at the County Council’s Local Heroes event, held at County Hall in June.The annual celebration recognises individuals who have gone above and beyond to make a lasting impact on their communities. Nominated by elected members prior to the May 2025 elections, these community champions were invited to a special civic reception, hosted by Council Chairman Councillor John Beynon.Among those honoured were three inspiring individuals from Blyth, each recognised for their commitment, compassion, and community spirit.John StenhouseJohn Stenhouse has long been a pillar of support for some of Northumberland’s most vulnerable residents. As a Trustee and volunteer with Northumberland County of Sanctuary, he helps provide vital support for asylum seekers and refugees—many of whom have ed war-torn regions. Working alongside the Red Cross and a dedicated team of volunteers, John ensures new arrivals are welcomed with food, clothing, and assistance navigating local services, including English language support.In addition, John also volunteers as a Trustee for Friends of Ridley Park in Blyth, playing a key role in maintaining and enhancing the area’s cherished green spaces.Anna Louise Melling A driving force for inclusivity and creativity in Blyth, Anna Louise Melling was recognised for her tireless voluntary eorts and her use of communication and the arts to bring people together. Her dedication has made a meaningful dierence to many lives in the community, embodying the spirit of local heroism through compassion and action.Vivienne MorganVivienne Morgan is a familiar and valued face at local clean-up and community events. A committed member of both Community Volunteers Blyth and Friends of Ridley Park, she dedicates her own time to keeping Blyth clean, green, and thriving. Always present with a litter bag in hand—often even before the group meets—Vivienne’s proactive and seless attitude has made her a true asset to her town.The Local Heroes event serves as a reminder that positive change often starts at a grassroots level, through the quiet dedication of individuals who see a need and choose to act. Northumberland is a stronger, more vibrant place thanks to these everyday heroes. Well done to everyone involved! #localheroes

Northumberland Line UpdateWe’re edging closer to the completion of the new Northumberland Line station at Blyth Bebside, which were anticipated to open in early September this year. Works on the station platforms and car park are progressing well, with tarmac now on the platform as well as a lot of the platform furniture such as waiting shelters and information screens now in place.The date for the opening of the station will be shared around 2 weeks before the station opens and this will be shared as widely as possible. Fares from Blyth Bebside will be the same as they are at Newsham, so an o-peak single to Newcastle will cost just £2 with railcard discounts also available.12 Blyth Town CouncilAt Newsham, works are progressing on the revised road layout on the west side of the station and these works are anticipated to be completed in late July this year, with the roads being surfaced once the new layout is complete.Passenger numbers on the line are continuing to grow and Northern will be adding additional capacity to trains on Sundays from July. All trains on Sundays are planned to be 4 carriages as the line is very busy with leisure journeys continuing to be extremely popular.For more information, visit the Northumberland Line website at www.northumberlandline.uk or email rail@northumberland.gov.uk if you have any questions on the project.Book tickets atnorthernrailway.co.uk

Isabella Skatepark, Isabella Play Space & St John's MugaIsabella SkateparkThe highly anticipated skatepark has now been open for 4 months and is receiving fantastic feedback from the community. It’s quickly become a go-to spot for those eager to practice and improve their skating skills.Located next to the Olga Potts play area, the skatepark oers a fun, safe, and engaging environment for children of all ages with the convenience of having both spaces side by side.With its modern design and inclusive layout, Isabella Skatepark is already proving to be a valuable and well-loved community asset.13 Blyth Town CouncilSt John's MUGAThe recently refurbished St John’s Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), located near Blyth town centre, now provides a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming space for community sports and recreation. Following upgrades in May that included repainting the frame and gates for a fresher look, installing new bins to improve cleanliness, adding clear new line markings for multiple sports, and replacing worn backboards and nets to enhance safety and playability.Isabella Play Space – Now Open!Opened in June 2025, the Isabella Play Space is a vibrant, at surface featuring colourful decals designed to spark creativity and imagination. Children are encouraged to plan their own adventures and create their own fun in this open-ended play environment.Boxes of toys and games—including favourites like Twister and beanbag toss—are available at both the Isabella Community Centre and the Pavilion. Come explore, play, and make your own fun!

Local CouncillorSmall Schemes AllowanceOur Community Development Committee proudly delivers avibrant, inclusive programme of free events all year round – bringing residents together and celebrating local talent.Town Carnival – Saturday 5 JulyColourful parades, live entertainment, family fun, and food stalls in the town centre.Sandcastle Competition – Saturday 12 JulyGet creative at the beach and compete for prizes!A Blyth Town Council event in partnership with Blyth CelebratesFireworks at the Beach – Saturday 1 NovemberA dazzling coastal display – wrap up warm and enjoy the show.Summer Events - Various activities will take place across the summer holidays, please see our website for more details and conrmed datesChristmas Lights Switch-On – Saturday 22 November Festive fun with music, performances, and a visit from Santa.A Blyth Town Council event in partnership with Blyth CelebratesWe’re also teaming up with Blyth Celebrates to bring even more exciting events – check the yer for full details.Contact us events@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukLet’s keep making memories and celebrating the best of Blyth – together!Blyth's Events Fun for all the Community!Make sure to followour social media channels for regularupdates!

Northumbria Police Joins Nextdoor to Connect with CommunitiesTo boost police visibility and strengthen community condence, Northumbria Police’s neighbourhood team is now sharing updates on the Nextdoor app.Residents can follow our team’s activity — including patrol updates, priority issues, partnership work, and public engagement — by visiting the Northumbria Police prole on the platform. Since joining a few months ago, the response from local communities has been very positive.We’d appreciate your support in spreading the word by sharing our posts with your networks, including on Facebook. Most Nextdoor links can be viewed even by those who aren’t members, but we encourage residents to sign up — it’s free and helps build a stronger, better-connected community.If you have any questions about the app or would like to get involved, please get in touch and we’ll connect you with our digital team.15 Blyth Town CouncilNew Debrillator Installed on Brierley Road to Boost Community SafetyBlyth Town Council has installed a new life-saving debrillator outside the Sparon Brierley Road, following community requests. The initiative, resolved by the Environment Committee in December 2024, was funded through County Councillor Wojciech Ploszaj’s Members’ Local Improvement Scheme.This new unit signicantly improves emer-gency response access, with the nearest existing debrillator previously over 775 metres away at Briardale Community Centre. The device has been added to the national debrillator network, The Circuit, and the Spar retailer has agreed to cover power costs.Residents can nd their nearest debrillator using the Deb Finder website. The Council thanks all supporters and contributors for helping to enhance public safety in Blyth.blythtowncouncil.gov.uk/debrillatorsBlyth South Beach Awarded Prestigious Blue FlagBlyth Town Council is proud to announce that Blyth South Beach has been awarded the international Blue Flag for summer 2025 — one of the highest recognitions for clean, safe, and well-managed beaches.Now in its 38th year, the Blue Flag is awarded by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy and celebrates beaches that meet the highest standards in water quality, safety, accessibility, and environmental management.The award reects the successful partnership between Blyth Town Council and Northumberland County Council. Blyth South Beach already benets from excellent water quality, lifeguards during busy periods, free parking, play areas, a promenade, dune walks, and a range of hospitality venues.This achievement highlights the hard work and dedication of local authorities, sta, volunteers, and residents in maintaining and improving one of the UK’s best seaside destinations.The Blue Flag will y proudly over Blyth South Beach this summer — a clear sign that the area continues to be a safe, welcoming, and environmentally responsible place for both residents and visitors.

Wards & Councillors Following the recent elections, please nd below your new councillors for Blyth and the map showing the amended ward boundaries.For more information regarding the Councillors, their contact details and the committees they are part of please visit Blythtowncouncil.gov.uk16 Blyth Town CouncilHow to nd us and ways to get in touchBlyth Town CouncilArms Evertyne HouseQuay RoadBlythNorthumberlandNE24 2ASMonday - Thursday9.00am - 5.00pm*Friday9.00am - 4.30pm** times may be subject to changeinfo@blythtowncouncil.gov.uk01670 361668Denise NicholsonBebside & Kitty BrewsterTown Councillordenise.nicholson@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukRick BakerCowpenTown Councillorrick.baker@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukMark PeartCroftTown Councillormark.peart@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukJohn WoodsIsabellaTown Councillorjohn.woods@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukDeirdre CampbellNewshamTown Councillordeirdre.campbell@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukDavid SwinhoePlesseyTown Councillordavid.swinhoe@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukDaniel CarrSouth BlythTown Councillordaniel.carr@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukNatalie RollsWensleydaleTown Councillornatalie.rolls@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukWojciech PloszajBebside & Kitty BrewsterTown Councillorwojciech.ploszaj@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukBrian ErskineCowpenTown Councillorbrian.erskine@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukKath NisbetCroftTown Councillorkath.nisbet@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukDavid JohnsonIsabellaTown Councillordavid.johnson@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukBarry ElliottNewshamTown Councillorbarry.elliott@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukCaitlin JonesPlesseyTown Councillorcaitlin.jones@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukTracey ElliottSouth BlythTown Councillortracey.elliott@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukAdrian CartieWensleydaleTown Councilloradrian.cartie@blythtowncouncil.gov.ukThe town is divided into eight wards, each serving as a distinct local area within the community. Every ward is represented by two Town Councillors who serve on the Blyth Town Council, working to address local issues and represent the interests of residents.In addition to the Town Councillors, each ward also elects one County Councillor, making a total of eight County Councillors. These individuals represent their respective wards at the county level, contributing to broader decisions that aect the entire region.For upcoming meetings and dates please visit the website. Keep up to date with us onsocial media!#yourlocalcouncil