NEWS IN BRIEF FROM ACROSS WESTERHOPE

:: HARTBURN MEWS

New homes are to be built instead of shop units on the Hartburn Mews development.

Developers were granted planning permission to construct the extra apartments in place of the three units.

Councillor Neil Hamilton says: "The developers were able to show that there had been no interest in the shops before planning permission was granted."

:: NEW SURE START SESSIONS

Sure Start has started some sessions at the Westerhope Community Association and further details may be obtained from Rebecca Budden on 0191 277 033.

:: OFF LICENCE GRANTED LICENCE

An off-licence on Downend Road has been granted a licence to sell alcohol.

The Licensing Committee agreed to grant the licence to The Local, which will allow the sale of alcohol between 10am and 9pm, seven days a week.

Councillor Marc Donnelly says: "This is considerably less than was applied for, which was 8am until 11pm Monday to Saturday and 10am till 10.30pm on Sunday."

:: NEW SPEED SIGNS FOR HILLHEAD ROAD

New 30mph signs have been installed on Hillhead Road following a request from the Westerhope Lib Dem Focus Team.

Councillor Pat Hillicks explains: "They have been installed as a reminder that the speed limit on Hillhead Road has been reduced to 30 mph.

"Several residents have raised concerns that many drivers are still driving too fast."

:: NEW PEDESTRIAN CROSSING FOR HILLHEAD ROAD

A new pedestrian crossing is to be installed on Hillhead Road.

The light-controlled crossing will be erected at the junction with West Denton Way.

Councillor Neil Hamilton says: "This will be a very welcome improvement for many people.

"Unfortunately the works will cause some disturbance and we would ask that local residents are patient while the work is carried out."