Alongside the detailed programme of environmental restoration, the Reconnecting the Wooler Water project also includes important changes to public access and infrastructure in the Haugh Head area. The works will remove the concrete ford across the Wooler Water at Haugh Head and, in doing so, remove vehicle access across the river.
A Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT) is classified as a public highway that allows access for all types of traffic, including motor vehicles, but is mainly used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Whilst Haugh Head Ford is currently a BOAT, there is signage that discourages its use due to safety.
The current BOAT will be removed/restricted via a Section 247 stopping up order. Section 247 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 enables the Secretary of State to authorize the “stopping up” (closure) or diversion of highways in England to allow development to proceed:
A Section 247 process includes:
– Application to the Department for Transport (DfT)
– Public notices
– Public and stakeholder consultation period of 28 days
– Determination by DfT
Generally, the process is anticipated to take 13 weeks; however, this can be significantly longer in the event of unresolved objections where an appeal may be triggered to enable to Secretary of State to make their determination.
The Reconnecting the Wooler Water project team will be aiming to submit the Section 247 in Spring 2026.
As part of Reconnecting the Wooler Water, the current footbridge will be removed and replaced with a new, wider bridge, giving improved access to Happy Valley, and the wider public access network in the area, for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.