PLANS to redevelop a seaside site in a Northumberland town have been given the go-ahead by a planning inspector.

Matt Ritson sought planning permission to overhaul Cliff Cottage at Amble, which incorporates a former boathouse, and to build three cottages in its grounds last June.

The plans attracted several objections from residents and Amble Town Council.

His two applications for planning permission for alteration and extension of the property on Bay View were refused by Northumberland County Council last December, despite officers recommending one for approval.

Mr Ritson lodged an appeal against both decisions.

Now, following a June site visit, planning inspector John Gray has ruled that Mr Ritson should be given approval for the scheme.

Last night, Mr Ritson said: “It has taken four and a half years to get here. The vast majority of Amble have been waiting for this to happen, waiting for somebody to tidy up the old boathouse.”

Mr Ritson said he is likely to launch proceedings against the council over the hold up he has suffered in winning approval for the scheme.

Mr Ritson said: “I do intend to take this to court eventually because four and a half years of delays is extremely unbusinesslike.”