In reply to Si Litchfield:
Here's an extract from the Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment 2010 for this part of the country: "The visual importance of this area within views from across northern Northumberland suggests that it is a landscape to be protected. It forms an important part of the setting of Northumberland National Park, both in distant views, and along access routes such as the Harthope valley which leads to the ascent of The Cheviot." and its key qualities "Visual relationship to the Cheviot Hills, and to the lower hills to the east; Open, rounded hills; Distinctive rectilinear pattern of hedgerow trees on lower slopes; Extensive evidence of historic settlement”
And most important, the management of this Cheviot Fringe "Seek to steer tourism-related development away from locations which are visually prominent, particularly when viewed from surrounding higher land. Protect the open nature of these hills and their relationship with the Cheviots. Discourage development which may affect views from within or towards the Northumberland National Park.
Yet the planning application was only defeated by 2 votes, now subject to a site visit after appeal. Northumberland National Park, Historic England and the Tourist Board have said No objections, don't know about Natural England yet, but who IS going to protect our countryside against a landowner's whim?