Whitehouse Farm is the largest family-run farm park in the North East of England and has been a beacon of inclusivity and accessibility over the years. We've proudly clinched the Gold Award for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year at the North East Tourism Awards in 2024, and another Gold in 2025 for Accessible and Inclusive Tourism. This year, 2026, sees us shortlisted once again for the Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award. These recognitions cement our commitment to providing an inclusive environment for all our visitors, irrespective of their abilities.

However, a recent enforcement notice from Northumberland County Council is threatening the core of our mission. This notice mandates the dismantling of the cover building over our accessible and inclusive playground. This structure is not merely a shelter but a critical component of ensuring that families, especially those with additional needs, can enjoy the farm park throughout the year, rain or shine.

Taking down this structure would not only diminish the visitor experience but also undermine the strides we've made in making Whitehouse Farm a truly inclusive space. The covered playground is a safe haven for children who need protection from the weather and allows families comfort and security during their visits. Its removal would be a significant step backward in our goal to keep the farm accessible to everyone.

We urge the Northumberland County Council to reconsider this enforcement notice. Removing this cover could adversely affect the future of Whitehouse Farm, not just in terms of visitor numbers but in our ability to continue offering an award-winning inclusive space.

Our request is simple and actionable: we ask the council to work with us to find a solution that maintains the accessible features essential for our diverse visitor base. A collaborative approach would ensure that Whitehouse Farm remains a place where everyone feels welcome and catered to.

Please sign this petition to show your support for inclusivity and accessibility at Whitehouse Farm. Together, we can urge the council to reconsider their decision and maintain the integrity of our inclusive playground.