THE proposal for a controversial, new build home once labelled a ‘Bond villain lair’ has been submitted for appeal after its planning refusal in December by the council.

Fold House - located on green belt land south of Riding Mill - was applauded by Northumberland County Council’s director of planning as being of ‘exceptional design’ but Rob Murfin argued the climate positive house did not enhance the area and it was rejected by members due to its scale and impact on its immediate setting.

Architects Durham-based Howarth Litchfield, in consultation with the landowner, has now submitted an appeal which is likely to result in the proposal being reviewed by an independent inspector.

The plans for the building have not been changed since the application was refused.

Director Neil Turner said: “This is a carefully designed piece of architecture with an outstanding engineering solution, set within a beautiful, significantly enhanced setting. The scheme meets both criteria for being outstanding and innovative as required by a Paragraph 79 house within the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

“If approved, Fold House will provide Northumberland with a superb piece of country house design. The surrounding woodlands and pasture grass have all been considered to create a modern farmhouse setting.

“The applicants and I respect the initial view of the planning committee but feel that by appealing the decision, it will provide an opportunity for us to present the design to an independent inspector - a route which we hope will establish the legitimacy of Fold House to be built in the proposed location.

“We are very much of the opinion that it is the right design in the right location.”