TV star’s cycling wrath
ACTRESS SUPPORTS CAMPAIGN AGAINST CYCLE PLAN
TV ACTRESS Charlie Hardwick has backed a campaign to stop a new cycle hub being built at a seaside landmark.
The star, best known for playing Val Pollard in the TV soap Emmerdale, has joined protests over plans to create the Watch House Garden at Spanish Battery near Tynemouth Priory.
The developers insist it would help create a “world-class” facility for cyclists and will put Tynemouth on the cycling map, catering for people taking part in the Coast to Coast ride.
The proposals have attracted positive comments from scores and over 1,700 have signed a petition in support.
But more than 3,100 are objecting to the scheme and have said it would spoil one of the village’s last peaceful places.
They fear the facility would have a negative impact on the character and heritage of the area, and would lead to increased traffic and noise.
Lindisfarne star Ray Laidlaw is among those protesting and now Ms Hardwick has added her voice to the campaign.
The actress, who is currently appearing in the Geordie play Hyem, in London, lives in Newcastle and visits Tynemouth frequently.
She said: “I am absolutely staggered that commercial development is even being considered for this area of truly outstanding natural beauty.
“Last night, after the show, I was talking to Rothbury-born actress Imogen Stubbs and we waxed lyrical about the North East, in particular the glorious land and seascape. It’s not an unusual conversation to have in London.
“Uninitiated people are perplexed that I choose to live ‘ up north’. When I describe our immense, wild, beautiful land and coast they are amazed. I boast constantly about Tynemouth and the headland where the river meets the sea. Where history meets the present. If I was home now, I’d be there breathing it all in.”
The developers, Northern Property Group, say the facility would “put Tynemouth well and truly on the cycle map”.
Josh Boyle, project director, said: “The hub will bring both cyclists and those with an interest in getting on a bike to a central place where they can relax after a ride or get to meet like-minded people. The hub will contain facilities hugely needed in Tynemouth such as showers, changing facilities, bike workshops and service stations.”
The team says they have engaged with the public from the outset and have adapted their plans after listening to concerns raised.