As part of our remit to cover issues and projects in South Northumberland, I notice that we do not have a thread for Tyne Valley Developments.

So, I thought I should start one, as it is about the only part of our patch that we have not got covered now, and it starts with some disappointing news, in the following post . .



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Robb’s survival under question – again
Hexham Courant, Friday 30 April 2010.

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/robbs-1.702602!image/2907028797.jpg_gen/derivatives/halfColumn/2907028797.jpg

THE future of Robb’s Store in Hexham again appeared to be hanging by a thread this week as it emerged that concession holders in the shop are owed tens of thousands of pounds.

An emergency meeting of some of the concession holders was being held yesterday lunchtime to discuss possible legal action against store operators Vergo Retail.

Matters came to a head on Friday morning when contract cleaners arriving at the store for their shifts were pulled out because their company had not been paid.

And during the week, it was clear that other operators within the store were also owed large sums of money.

One concession holder, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s an absolute disgrace.

“Some of us are owed £30,000 each, with others owed anything from £8,000 to £12,000.

“We have been trying without success to get through to Vergo Retail in Liverpool, but our calls are not being returned.”

A cleaner, who also wished to remain anonymous, said: “These people don’t seem to realise that we have mortgages to pay and other commitments.”

Robb’s actually operates very few of the departments within the store directly, with most services prov ided on a franchise basis.

Cash paid over the tills goes to Vergo Retail, who reimburse the concession operators on a monthly basis, less their rental charges.

However, it is understood last month’s payments were not made – and some concession holders have not been paid since Christmas.


REST OF ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/robb-s-survival-under-question-again-1.702505?referrerPath=home

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Further bad news for Robbs Department Store . .

Jobs under threat at North East Department Stores
May 8 2010 by Robert Weatherall, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/may2010/1/8/robbs-of-hexham-303517870.jpg

WORKERS at two of the region's department stores are facing an uncertain future for the second time in three years after their parent company went into administration.

Staff at Robbs of Hexham and Joplings of Sunderland have been told that parent company Vergo Retail Limited has been put into administration.

Hundreds of staff at the two sites were given the news yesterday (FRI) by managers on site.

It is the second time in three years that workers have been left fearing for their futures.

Administrators MCR have been appointed to try to sell the company, which has 17 other outlets across the UK, as a going concern.

Sarah Bell, a partner at MCR, said Vergo had suffered as a result of the downturn in the economy and the tightening up of lending making it difficult to re-finance debt.

She said: “Unfortunately the company has endured periods of financial loss.

“It has made efforts following the recently announced closure of the Lewis’s store in Liverpool, to seek new finance to restructure the business but has been unsuccessful in finding a going concern solution.

“Like many retailers, it has experienced a difficult trading environment during the economic downturn.”

Vergo was established three years ago by businessman David Thompson, when his previous company Owen Owen, which ran 19 stores in all, collapsed with debts of £6.8m.

He was able to continue trading when he set up Vergo Retail.

Speaking at the time he said: “I have every confidence in Robbs. It is a strong business with a good future.

“While I can be knocked for going into administration, I have put many millions of pounds into this business because I believe in it.”

The administrators have suggested that the company will be able to continue to trade for at least a month while efforts are made to find a buyer.

There has been no indication on whether the different branches of the business could be sold off individually.


http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/05/08/jobs-under-threat-at-north-east-department-stores-61634-26403936/

Silence over Hexham bus station re-development, is ‘suspicious’

Helen Compson, Hexham Courant, Friday, 07 May 2010

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/HexhamBusStation.jpg

The public is being kept in the dark about a new development vital to Hexham’s economy, said two leading figures this week.

Hexham Civic Society chairman Tim Tatman and the town’s Mayor Coun. Terry Robson both criticised Northumberland County Council’s handling of the proposed redevelopment of Hexham bus station.

Despite its stated policy of community involvement, the council had so far failed to either consult with interested parties or provide the information requested, said Mr Tatman on Tuesday.

The situation was all the more worrying because the council had signed an exclusivity agreement with Newcastle-based development company Dysart in January that guaranteed the latter a year in which to draw up plans for the redevelopment.

Yet there had been no discernible progress, at least as far as the public was concerned, and no other developer was allowed to enter the arena until the year was out.

“The civic society has no objection in principle to the exclusivity agreement, but we are concerned about the lack of information being made available,” he said.

“The silence makes you suspicious and that leads to speculation.

“This is an absolutely vital site for Hexham town centre – it will have a big impact on the character and the vitality of the town.

“So I think that trying to hide things from the public in case they become excited about something that is only a developmental idea is seriously misjudging the public.”

Mr Tatman took the opportunity to promote a new exhibition that opens in Scott’s cafe at the Forum Cinema next Friday.

Repeating an exercise first carried out last year, a group of Newcastle University urban design students will display their ideas about what should replace the bus station.


REST OF ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/silence-over-bus-station-suspicious-1.705204?referrerPath=home


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Walked through Robbs on Saturday. Very sad, departments already packing up and dismantling shelves. Looks like a Hexham institution could be gone for good. Hopefully it doesn't end up as flats. What will happen to the town's only post office if Robbs shuts?

On the bus station development, it is in real need of redevlopment, but must stay in it's current central location. It would be nice if they could create a nice link to the Marks and Spencer car park with added retail space and hopefully someone will buy Robbs and create a good retail link to Fore Street and the market.

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This was the happy end to the story, after the last "Robbs Closure Crisis", as recently as 2007 . . .

Robbs Of Hexham Saved

http://pics.myvillage.com/1177518218148.jpg

Hexham breathed a sigh of relief when Robbs received a reprieve from certain closure. The announcement was made following tense last minute negotiations, which saw Robbs of Hexham saved by the owner of the company whose massive debts nearly spelt the end for the historical department store.

David Thompson, who purchased Robbs’ parent company Owen Owen in 2005, bought back the store under his new company name Vergo Retail Limited. Debts of over £6 million that had forced the former company into liquidation earlier this year would be written off. This would probably be of no concern to the 140 employees of the store who had endured almost a month of uncertainty, or the townsfolk, to whom the loss of Hexham’s first and most famous department store would be like a personal bereavement.

William Robb opened the first, tiny store in 1818 after falling in love with the town during his many excursions from Leith in Scotland to sell his Linens in the market. His descendants kept the business in the family and evolved it through increasingly larger premises, until it moved to the south end of Fore Street in 1928, opposite its present site.

The store continued its expansion under the careful management of the fondly remembered Derek Robb, a victim of Polio whose circuits of the store in his electric wheelchair were a regular sight. In the seventies the department store even acquired its own Hairdressing Salon and traders such as WH Smith, Topshop and Topman, Burton and Bay Trading flocked to set up concessions.

Following financial difficulties in 1986 Robbs was merged with Joplings of Sunderland and a year later both stores were sold to the Merchant Retail Group, effectively ending the Robbs dynasty in all but name. During the nineties Robbs flourished and soon expanded into a sister store, Tynedale Park. Both stores brought customers into the town from far and wide until 2004 when in a shock move Merchant Retail put both stores up for sale. Tesco snapped up Tynedale Park and the Liverpool-based Owen Owen took over Robbs along with its staff.

As an ex-staff member at Robbs, as well as a lifelong resident of Hexham I can’t begin to tell you how relieved I am that we are no longer going to lose this vital and intrinsic institution. Whether you just used the store as a shortcut between streets on a rainy or cold day, idly passed time inside its many departments or used its warm, spacious interior as a meeting place for yourself and your friends, it is unlikely that anyone who has spent a good chunk of their lives in Hexham hasn’t made use of, and enjoyed, Robbs of Hexham - and will continue to for many years to come.


This article is from the Hexham Website 'My Village' - http://hexham.myvillage.com/article/update-robbs-of-hexham-saved

THAT ^^^^ was three years ago, then today we hear this . . .

Robbs of Hexham and Joplings of Sunderland
to close in 4 weeks time.
BBC Newcastle, 12th May 2010.


Two historic North East Department Stores are to close after their owner went into administration.

Robbs of Hexham and Joplings in Sunderland had been sold to Vergo Retail in 2007 and today administrators MCR said Vergo Retail had now gone into administration

This means that their nine stores across England would close.

It said the stores would shut in four weeks with a loss of 335 jobs in total, although it could not rule out the possibility that they may be sold.

The other stores are in Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester, Dovercourt and Witham in Essex, Stowmarket, in Suffolk, Plymouth and Norwich.

Sarah Bell, partner at MCR, said: "Following a financial review of the business it was apparent it could not continue to trade in the short term without implementing immediate cost saving measures."

"There is an opportunity for interested parties to come forward and rescue the remaining business as a going concern."

Students weigh in to debate over Hexham bus station
May 13 2010 by Tony Henderson, The Journal


STUDENTS have weighed in to the long-running debate on the future of a town centre bus station site.

It is hoped the closure of the bus station in Priestpopple in Hexham and its redevelopment would boost the town centre and attract more people.

Urban design students from Newcastle University were asked to come up with proposals for the bus station and surrounding sites, including Robbs store which is to close after parent company Vergo Retail Ltd crashed.

Northumberland County Council has signed an agreement with Dysart Developments which allows the company a year in which to come up with a scheme for the bus station site, and to work towards submitting a plan.

This work will include carrying out consultation with local residents, organisations and businesses.


REST OF ARTICLE HERE - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/05/13/students-weigh-in-to-debate-over-hexham-bus-station-61634-26434895/

National chain eyes up Robbs
HELEN COMPSONP, Hexham Courant, Friday, 21 May 2010

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/RobbClosing-2007jpg.jpg
PHOTO taken the last time Robbs was about to close, in 2007.

A POTENTIAL last-minute saviour has expressed an interest in taking over the doomed Robbs department store in Hexham.

National department store chain Beales, has lodged formal notice of interest in the store with administrators MCR.

Representatives of Beales were looking round the property yesterday.

And while it is early days to talk of any deal, the interest alone has given the 120 people who work at the store at least a glimmer of hope.

Started in Bournemouth in 1881, Beales adopted an expansion programme in the 1960s, now has 11 stores spread across Bedford, Southport, Bolton, Winchester, Kendal, Yeovil, Worthing, Tonbridge and Horsham.

Most trade under the Beales name, but the group also includes Whitakers Department Store in Bolton, Broadbent & Boothroyds in Southport, and Denners in Yeovil, in Somerset.

It focuses on specific merchandise categories, principally womenswear, mens-wear, gifts, cosmetics and light homewares.

As well as its main stores Beales operates a successful online shopping service.

The interest by Beales has come as the administrators have called on owners of the Robb’s building the Buccleuch Group, and Northumberland County Counci, to waive rent and rents for the next 10 weeks.

They feel the business would be more attractive if it was marketed as a going concern.

The rates alone for the building are thought to be around £100,000 a year.

A spokesman for the administrators said: “MCR hasn’t heard back from either party yet, but MCR is asking them to waive the rent and rates to give it longer to sell the store.

“The store was due to close within four weeks, but the closure could be put back to 10 weeks if agreement is reached.”


REST OF ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/national-chain-eyes-up-robb-s-1.710986?referrerPath=home

Hi all,

I've been blogging about the threat to Robbs here (http://www.soultsretailview.co.uk/), and did an analysis of Beales (http://www.soultsretailview.co.uk/2010/05/18/could-beales-or-someone-else-yet-save-robbs/) ahead of the Courant's story on Friday.

Hopefully the promise of a takeover will come good!

Store group pursues takeover bid for Robb’s
By HELEN COMPSON, Hexham Courant, Friday 28 May 2010


A TAKEOVER deal which would secure the future of the Robb’s department store in Hexham could soon be clinched.

Dorset-based store group Beales was this week involved in advanced negotiations with the Buccleuch Group, owner of the Robb’s premises, and MCR, administrators of the troubled Vergo Group, owner of the Robb’s business.

If the deal goes ahead, it is likely to safeguard most, if not all, of the 120 jobs at Robb’s and avoid the possibility of seeing Hexham’s retail landmark boarded up.

Beales chief executive Tony Brown is understood to have visited Robb’s and is keen to add it to his stable of 11 market town department stores.

He said: “We are continuing to pursue our interest. We are still in talks with both the landlord and the administrators.”

Retail analyst Graham Soult said Mr Brown’s track record suggested Beales would be good for the future of Robb’s and the future of Hexham as a shopping centre.

Since he took the helm at Beales in 2007, Mr Brown has revived the fortunes of the group and overseen a major overhaul of its stores which include one in Kendal.

Mr Soult said: “If Beales does take over Robb’s, it will really improve the store.”


FULL ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/store-group-pursues-takeover-bid-for-robb-s-1.713855?referrerPath=home

No changes in £30m Prudhoe centre plan
ROBERT GIBSON, Hexham Courant, Friday, 28 May 2010 - robert.gibson@hexham-courant.co.uk


THE Duke of Northumberland’s redevelopment plans for Prudhoe are to go out for public consultation again – completely unaltered from their original form.

Planning permission for the £30 million scheme, which initially attracted over 4,000 objections, was recently quashed by a High Court judge, as no environmental impact assessment had taken place. It had previously been given the go-ahead by Tynedale Council.

Protesters hoped their victory at the High Court would lead to a rethink of the project, but this week Northumberland Estates development director Colin Barnes said this would not happen.

Although more detail will be included in the new plans, their contents will remain the same, and Mr Barnes was confident they would soon be passed.

“Neither local planning policy nor the proposals have changed since the previous decision to approve and we are advised that the environmental statement is unlikely to throw up any new issues not previously considered, given much of the work required formed part of the original submission,” he said.

“At a national level, new planning guidance favours town centre sites and there is greater recognition of the role which retail development has to play in boosting employment and economic regeneration within the local economy.”

The scheme, which covers a large stretch of land, would include a new Sainsbury’s store, a multi-storey car park and more than 150 new homes.

A new town square and extra shops would also be created, but one existing block of businesses and the current United Services Club would go.


FULL ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/no-changes-in-30m-prudhoe-centre-plan-1.713849?referrerPath=news/1.223102

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Some REALLY GOOD news . . .

Takeover deal saves Hexham store
Hexham Courant, Friday 04 June 2010

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/robbs-store-hexham-1.716479!image/800341918.jpg_gen/derivatives/halfColumn/800341918.jpg

THE future of the Robbs department store in Hexham and its 140 jobs have been saved in a £250,000 takeover deal.

Department store group Beales confirmed the buy-out on Friday morning, after clinching an agreement with MCR, the administrators charged with the task of looking after the assets of beleaguered Vergo Retail, former owner of Robbs.

In a statement, Beales said, in terms of demographics and trading history, the Hexham store was a good addition to its portfolio of 11 market town outlets.

Beales chief executive Tony Beales was reported as saying: “It will take 12 months to get it back to where it should be. It will be a difficult road to return it to profitability but we will get there.”

He indicated there would investment at Robbs, which would include some refitting work and a review of its concessions and own brand goods.

ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/takeover-deal-saves-hexham-store-1.716476?referrerPath=home


Then, the following day, the good news (and more DETAIL) was confirmed in the Journal . .

Hexham store is rescued from the axe again
Jun 5 2010 by Chris Knox, The Journal

A HISTORIC Northumberland department store has survived a three-year battle for survival after being bought by a retail group in a deal which saves the jobs of its 76 staff.

Robbs department store in Hexham has been bought by the JE Beale retail group following the collapse into administration of its former owner Vergo Retail Limited.

It is not the first time that Robbs has been saved. There was an announcement in early May 2007 that it was to close in under two weeks when its then owners Owen Owen went into administration.

The store was saved later that year following a dramatic last ditch purchase by Vergo.

However, Vergo has since been badly hit by the economic downturn, forcing it to bring in administrators MCR last month to help sell on its portfolio of stores. It immediately announced the redundancy of 335 staff across the business, including 20 at the Hexham store.

The 182-year-old Robbs was also earmarked for demolition in 2008 to make way for a shopping development, but the scheme was shelved.

The 76 workers at the store have transferred to Bournemouth-based JE Beale, which runs 12 UK department stores.

Tony Brown, chief executive of JE Beale, said that he was signing a 15-year lease on the building and was looking to get the workforce back up to around 100.

He said: “The way this store has been managed over the last three years has been almost sinful, with a lack of investment and under-stocking two of the main reasons for its lack of success.

“We have a good track record of running market town department stores and are determined to provide Robbs with a profitable future.”

Sarah Bell, partner of MCR, said: “Following an effective administration process, we are delighted to confirm the sale of such an iconic store in the region.

“It’s positive news for both the 76 company employees whose jobs will be directly transferred to the new owners as well as the local community.”

The news was yesterday welcomed by local councillors.

Hexham councillor Terry Robson said: “This is absolutely fantastic news for the community of Hexham as Robbs is key to the economic health of the area, both as one of the centre’s biggest employers and as a symbol of its importance to the rest of the North East.”

ARTICLE HERE - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2010/06/05/hexham-store-is-rescued-from-the-axe-again-51140-26591953/


Some PHOTOS of Robbs, from Robbs own website . . .

The side nentrance to Robbs, on Battle Hill . .
http://media.freeola.com/images/user-images/3569/ss100657.jpg

Part of the main frontage and entrance, on Fore Street . .
http://media.freeola.com/images/user-images/3569/hexhamjuly026.jpg

Another view of the 'side frontage & entrance', on Battle Hill . .
http://media.freeola.com/images/user-images/3569/hexhamjuly031.jpg

Main frontage of Robbs, looking down Fore Street from Battle Hill . .
http://media.freeola.com/images/user-images/3569/ss100656.jpg

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From the "Beales Department Stores" Website . .

http://www.beales.co.uk/assets/img/logo.jpg

NEW STORE ACQUIRED IN HEXHAM
04/06/2010

As part of our growth plans, we are pleased to announce the acquisition of the Department Store of Robbs of Hexham from MCR, the Administrator of Vergo Retail Limited, through our primary trading subsidiary of J E Beale plc.

The demographics of Hexham and the trading history of Robbs align well with those of ours.

The transaction increases our portfolio to twelve stores, primarily in Market Towns.

The Board are delighted that the Company has been able to acquire the Robbs store taking it out of administration and securing its future.

For further information:
Beale PLC
Tony Brown, Chief Executive
Ken Owst, Finance Director
Tel: 01202 552022

Astaire Securities
Antony Legge
Toby Gibbs
Tel: 020 7448 4400

This is great news. :banana:

I grew up in Hexham and Robbs has always been the focal point for retail in the town. I'm pleased it's been taken over by an established group who will invest in it. The stock inside over the last few years had become somewhat 'dated', to put it politely.

Cant wait to go back when it's all done!

Silence over Hexham bus station re-development, is ‘suspicious’

Helen Compson, Hexham Courant, Friday, 07 May 2010

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/HexhamBusStation.jpg

The public is being kept in the dark about a new development vital to Hexham’s economy, said two leading figures this week.

Hexham Civic Society chairman Tim Tatman and the town’s Mayor Coun. Terry Robson both criticised Northumberland County Council’s handling of the proposed redevelopment of Hexham bus station.

Despite its stated policy of community involvement, the council had so far failed to either consult with interested parties or provide the information requested, said Mr Tatman on Tuesday.

The situation was all the more worrying because the council had signed an exclusivity agreement with Newcastle-based development company Dysart in January that guaranteed the latter a year in which to draw up plans for the redevelopment.

Yet there had been no discernible progress, at least as far as the public was concerned, and no other developer was allowed to enter the arena until the year was out.

“The civic society has no objection in principle to the exclusivity agreement, but we are concerned about the lack of information being made available,” he said.

“The silence makes you suspicious and that leads to speculation.

“This is an absolutely vital site for Hexham town centre – it will have a big impact on the character and the vitality of the town.

“So I think that trying to hide things from the public in case they become excited about something that is only a developmental idea is seriously misjudging the public.”

Mr Tatman took the opportunity to promote a new exhibition that opens in Scott’s cafe at the Forum Cinema next Friday.

Repeating an exercise first carried out last year, a group of Newcastle University urban design students will display their ideas about what should replace the bus station.


REST OF ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/silence-over-bus-station-suspicious-1.705204?referrerPath=home


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Domingo Grande would be gutted that nothing has been done with the site, it's been nearly 10 years since he died. :ohno:

New era of investment for Robbs
By Helen Compson, Hexham Courant, Friday, 11 June 2010

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/tony-brown-beales-1.719308!image/3924790701.jpg_gen/derivatives/slideshow/3924790701.jpg

HEXHAM breathed a sigh of relief this week as department store chain Beales clinched a £250,000 deal to buy Robbs.

As shown in the above PHOTO, Beales chief executive Tony Brown got straight down to business on Monday by giving some much sought after reassurance.

The 100-plus jobs at Robb’s are safe, the post office will be retained, and the food hall is here to stay.

Although the other 11 stores in the Dorset-based Beales chain are more notable for their mix of clothes and household goods, Mr Brown said: “I spent 19 years with Asda – I can do food! “The food hall is here to stay, 100 per cent. I just want to make it better.”

With that, he signalled the start of a two-year programme of investment in the store designed to undo the neglect of recent years. Refurbishment work will run throughout the summer, ready for a store relaunch on September 1, but then there will be a break to allow for Christmas trading.

Mr Brown admitted there was a lot to do. “In these cases, when you are buying a store in administration, you don’t get a great opportunity to do due diligence – there is a big leap of faith. “We have a clear picture now, and there are more challenges than we thought there would be.

“We need to get the space working better for us, get the right brands in place and get over the reputation issues. Robb’s has been a poor servant, recently, to the town.” Having signed a 15-year lease with the owners of the Robbs building, Scottish property company Buccleuch Group, Mr Brown said he intended to take Robb’s more upmarket.

“I greatly admire Fenwick’s and John Lewis, and we try to get that type of quality and brand-mix.”

Beales has three in-house clothes brands and its own range of household goods and linens, but negotiations are already under way with several national fashion houses. Jacques Vert, Alexon, Joules, Noa Noa and Craghopper are all on the horizon for women, while Mr Brown is aware of the need to cater for young people, too.

The Wrangler, Levi, Esprit and Jack Jones ranges could all be brought in quite easily. And talks are taking place to bring Miss Selfridge to Hexham.

A cosmetics hall will be re-installed in the first round of refurbishments, providing a bright, polished front-of-house.

A show of hands revealed the overwhelming majority of staff were in favour of keeping the Robbs name. So while their wish will be granted, the marketing banner ‘Robbs, part of the Beales family’ will be used from now on.


FULL ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/new-era-of-investment-for-robb-s-1.719069?referrerPath=home

£2m refit heralds new era for Robbs
By HELEN COMPSON, Hexham Courant, 3rd September 2010

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/tony-brown-beales-ceo-1.754191!image/3872041602.jpg_gen/derivatives/halfColumn/3872041602.jpg

ROBBS rose phoenix-like from the ashes this week when the first phase of a £2 million refit was unveiled to the public.

The tatty interior and the stock that looked like it had come from a warehouse clearance sale had been replaced with sparkling, crisp displays and big name brands by the time Hexham’s Mayor Coun. Terry Robson cut the ribbon on Wednesday.

“I declare this store ‘open’ for several more generations to come,” he said.

The triumphal relaunch of Hexham’s historic department store by new owner’s Beales won plaudits from local businesses and shoppers alike.

Coun. Robson spoke for many when he said: “Hand on heart, I’m really pleased to be here, because Robbs is so crucial to the economy of this town – it is vital!

“It has been here for generations and the whole retail offer in Hexham depends on it.”

In a move expected to give a further fillip to tourism businesses and fellow traders, the store is set to open every Sunday for the first time, from 11am until 4pm.

The purchase of Robbs – it was the only one of previous owner Vergo Retail’s 20-strong chain to be rescued from liquidation – has also secured more than 100 jobs.

Beales chief executive Tony Brown, who was recruited to turn around the Beales chain which was itself floundering three years ago, said Robbs was now going from strength to strength.

With the chain’s headquarters located in Bournemouth and the majority of its department stores in the south, Robbs is the most northerly of the stable, but the Beales name and track record has attracted a whole host of prestigious retail brands to Hexham, that until now have been associated largely with Newcastle City Centre and the MetroCentre.

Front of house are cosmetics and perfume brands such as Clinique, Estee Lauder, Clarins and Chanel, while the Wallis women’s range is a real coup in the fashion departments.

It is joined by other quality lines such as Jacques Vert, Joules and Fransa and, for the men, Esprit, Henri Lloyd, Timberland, Fred Perry, Levi and Wrangler.


FULL ARTICLE HERE - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/2m-refit-heralds-new-era-for-robbs-1.754135?referrerPath=home

Went to Robbs on Wednesday for the grand opening and was very pleased with what I saw, it was like I walked into a totally different shop. The best way I could describe it as a mini Fenwicks. I don't like the new black Robbs logo and a bit of the shop still looks very dark. However, the menswear department ha been brought out of the dark ages and the new cosmetics hall is a nice, bright enterance to the shop. Can't wait to see their plans for the next steps in the refit starting in February.

Lottery cash boost for Hexham Abbey project
September 27th 2010, by Tony Henderson, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2010/4/7/hexham-abbey-924927267.jpg

PLANS can now be drawn up for the return of a building lost to an abbey more than 450 years ago.

The Heritage Lottery Fund will today announce its initial support for £1.8m project by Hexham Abbey.

It means that plans can now be developed for a major heritage regeneration project which aims to breathe life back into former monastic buildings adjoining the abbey.

The project has been awarded £175,000 by the Heritage Lottery Fund to help develop plans which include re-acquiring and refurbishing the Carnaby Building and monastic workshops adjoining the abbey, which were lost to the church at the time of the Reformation.

The Carnaby building was last used by Northumberland County Council social services department but has been empty for more than a year.

Project manager Fiona Standfield said: “A lot of money will have to be spent to consolidate the building.”

The abbey proposals for use of the building include interpretation and education centres and space for community uses.

The building would be used to tell the story of Hexham, the role of the abbey in its history and Northumberland as a cradle of Christianity.

“Hexham has a huge amount of heritage and history and the project would mean we would be in a position to share that with people,” said Fiona.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/09/27/lottery-cash-boost-for-hexham-abbey-project-61634-27347196/#ixzz10iUOPiWL

Hexham not in favour of Northumberland
County Councils markets plans
October 6th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal


PLANS to improve markets in Northumberland have been dismissed as “stupid” and “rubbishy” by civic leaders in Hexham.

Last week Northumberland County Council released a report outlining plans to improve a number of markets in the county, including Hexham. The report was drawn up because of concerns that some markets in Northumberland had been in decline in recent years.

But town councillors in Hexham – which has a market dating back to the 13th century – have rejected the offer of help and say they want to take over their own market from the county.

Hexham’s deputy town council chairman Rad Hare said: “Let’s stop these long, stupid, rubbish strategy reports.

“We feel we have a more independent market, should get on with our own business – and do it better than anybody else.”

Hexham is wary of this new intervention, and Coun Ingrid Whale declared: “If we try to regulate things too much, we might achieve failure rather than success.”

Hexham Market, first granted a Charter by King Henry III in 1239 and run ever since in the shadow of the famous Abbey, was at a low ebb around the turn of the century but has revived considerably since.

There are 16 regular traders and in 2005 Country Life magazine voted Hexham England’s favourite market town – a move which brought a massive boost.

Now a recently-introduced monthly farmers’ market has also become a major success.

Coun Matty Donnelly added: “We could talk until we’re blue in the face but I believe strongly we should go to the stallholders – the people that earn their living every day.”

Hexham Town Mayor Coun Terry Robson said: “This is not good business practice. It is business strategy, not market strategy. I have to say I am not over-excited and over-enthusiastic about this report.

“Hexham is unique – what have we got in common with Blyth Market, for example? There is talk of partnerships, but we already have our own partnership with the Hexham Community Partnership – how many partnerships do we need? I think they have lost the plot on that one.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/06/plans-rubbished-for-northumberland-market-improvements-61634-27410369/2/#ixzz11ZFk7yII

Library to be ‘jewel in town’s crown’
October 8th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal


A new £1.9m library will be built in the heart of a Northumberland town, after loans and grant funding was secured.

The Prudhoe Library is being hailed as a jewel in the crown, by the town’s Community Partnership, which has been handed the job of seeing the project through from start to finish.

Northumberland County Council has given Prudhoe Community Partnership responsibility – and a 150-year lease – for the development which will replace the old library in Front Street.

The county has made a £100,000 contribution, while a £1.8m investment has come from the Community builders social business fund. Prudhoe Town Council is contributing £15,000.

The old library will be demolished early next year and the new three-storey building is expected to open in the summer of 2012.

It will contain a ground-floor library plus office space on the first and second floors, first-floor meeting rooms plus an art gallery and cafe.

Yvonne Probert, PCP project manager, said last night: “It’s fantastic - our jewel in the crown. It’s what Prudhoe needs. It is a massive opportunity to have a one-stop shop for all services. It is the kind of service a town of 12,500 population should have.”

Mrs Probert added: “It would have cost £1.6m to refurbish the old two-storey building, so it made sense to pay £1.9m for a brand new three-storey building.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/08/library-to-be-jewel-in-town-s-crown-61634-27427040/#ixzz11kyVuQjj

Hexham Property Sale can boost Northumberland
County Council finances
October 9th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal


A MAYOR has backed the sale of four prime council properties in a Northumberland town as part of new cost-cutting measures.

Northumberland County Council, which has to find £30m worth of savings this year, has put Prospect House, Hexham House, the old Grammar School and the former Swimming Pool – all in Hexham – on the open market.

As well as raising an estimated £4m, the sales would save running costs of around £150,000 a year.

New businesses are likely to move in and Mayor Terry Robson, who chairs the town council and represents Hexham Central on the county council, said: “I do think this is a good move. They have to sell, then see what the market offers, and this will stimulate business in the area.

“It is pointless hanging on to property waiting for a price they will not achieve. Far better to sell it at the market price, realise assets, and provide capital that can be invested into other things.

“In fact, the county council is awash with surplus buildings which they need to turn into capital.”

The four Hexham properties formerly belonged to Tynedale District Council.

The Grade II-listed Old Grammar School houses Tynedale’s Planning Department while Prospect House, also Grade II-listed, provides the meeting chamber for both town and county councils.

The Old Swimming Pool is less used since the building of a new pool at Wentworth, and Hexham House has no current main use.

The county council will retain Hadrian House and offices at Tyne Mills, where council and committee meetings are likely to be held. The town council may transfer to the National Parks Room at Eastgate. The county’s executive member for corporate resources, Coun Andrew Tebbutt, said: “The authority is facing unprecedented challenges. It will have to make an estimated £30m efficiency savings over the coming financial year, following on the back of £50m savings over the previous two years.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/09/property-sale-can-boost-the-northumberland-county-council-61634-27434036/#ixzz11qbl1G4g

Anger as four Hexham buildings put up for sale
October 12th 2010, The Journal


THE sale of four historic council-owned buildings in a Northumberland town has been condemned as “sacrificing heritage and selling the crown jewels”.

Matty Donnelly, a long-serving town councillor in Hexham, said the proposed sale of Prospect House, Hexham House, the Old Grammar School and the former swimming pool building was a betrayal of the town’s history. Northumberland County Council has decided to put the quartet of buildings on the open market and invite offers.

The sale is expected to raise over £4m as the authority attempts to find £30m worth of savings – and the move has already won the backing of Hexham Mayor Coun Terry Robson. But Coun Donnelly, a 64-year-old lifelong resident of Hexham, declared: “I was absolutely aghast when I heard that these wonderful properties were coming on to the market. I think it’s truly shocking, I really do.

“They should have been retained for the people of Hexham and I think the authority could have made inroads into getting grants to maintain them.

“It’s part of the town’s heritage that is being sacrificed and I’m sure now that the sale will go through.

“I have got our MP, Guy Opperman, involved and we looked to see if there was a clause by which we might be able to retain them, but sadly there wasn’t. I fully understand they need the money for various projects, but I believe what could have been done or suggested was using some of the £20-odd million that the old Tynedale Council put into their coffers to avoid this.”

Coun Andrew Tebbutt, Northumberland executive member for corporate resources, said: “The merger of seven councils into one unitary council in Northumberland has enabled us to streamline services, rationalise the number of buildings we currently own, generate large-scale efficiencies and look to find new and better ways of working.

“We are facing unprecedented challenges and it makes no sense to retain buildings we no longer need.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/12/anger-as-four-hexham-buildings-put-up-for-sale-61634-27450470/#ixzz128HR8URj

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Further to the previous ^^ two posts . . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/HexhamPropertiesFORSALE-Oct20101.jpg
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/HexhamPropertiesFORSALE-Oct20102.jpg

Hexham residents aim to block new flats scheme
October 14th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2010/5/3/ian-breach-shaftoe-crescent-383885179.jpg

A NEW apartment block planned for a historic market town has brought major protests from people living next to the site.

Twenty-six written objections and a 91-name petition have been lodged in opposition to an 11-apartment scheme at Shaftoe Crescent in Hexham’s conservation area.

But planning officers are recommending that permission is granted, sparking protests in the town.

Protesters will descend on next Wednesday’s meeting of Northumberland County Council’s west area planning committee in a last-minute bid to have the plans scrapped.

It is claimed the four-storey apartment block would be out of character with the nearby Georgian and Victorian terraces.

The disused 80-year-old West End Garage currently stands on the site and although the former Tynedale District Council granted permission for the apartments in March 2007 the work was never started and in March this year the three-year time limit expired.

Now an extension to the limit is being sought by applicant Mike Pattison, and nearby residents are preparing for the second round of their battle. Resident Ian Breach said: “It is a progressive encroachment of urban development and this will be incongruous and out of character.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/14/hexham-residents-aim-to-block-new-flats-scheme-61634-27467779/#ixzz12PrwMlGC

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Further to . . . ^^^^

Controversial Hexham apartments get go-ahead
October 23rd 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal


A CONTROVERSIAL development in a town conservation area has been given the go-ahead by planners.

The 11-apartment block at Shaftoe Crescent in Hexham raised a storm of protest from local residents who claimed it would crowd the streets and bring extra traffic problems.

But Northumberland County Council’s West Area Planning Committee approved the scheme despite the objections.

The original application was granted in March 2007 but nothing was done before the three-year grant period expired in March this year.

Since then, national housing policy has changed, removing minimum density requirements and excluding residential gardens from brownfield land definitions.

Resident Ian Sotheran told the committee: “Planning policy has changed significantly and I argue that this design does not now meet the criteria. This will set a precedent if it is passed.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/23/controversial-hexham-apartments-get-go-ahead-61634-27528902/#ixzz13AX0PCwr

Prudhoe residents fume over plan’s revival
October 29th 2010 by Paul Tully, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2010/2/1/two-of-the-illustrations-detailing-the-proposed-changes-in-prudhoe-that-were-displayed-previously-in-the-town-984349781.jpg

OBJECTORS are gearing up for a repeat battle against the Duke of Northumberland’s controversial plans for Prudhoe town centre.

The duke’s Northumberland Estates is ready to re-submit exactly the same £30m development scheme that was thrown out on a legal technicality by a High Court judge in March.

The plans were scuppered because an environmental impact study had not been carried out, despite it being a legal requirement.

The study has now been completed and Northumberland Estates head of planning Colin Barnes confirmed the application would be re-submitted in identical form to the planners at the county council.

“We have had a public exhibition and the plans haven’t changed,” said Mr Barnes. “They will be submitted to the council sometime next month.”

The news brought an immediate response from campaigners who thought they had left the plans in ruins when High Court judge Mark Pelling, sitting in Manchester, threw them out seven months ago.

Battle lines are being redrawn and the Take Pride In Prudhoe action group, which was set up specifically to lead the protests, is ready to launch protests.

Spokesman John Robson, of Tyne View Terrace, Prudhoe, said: “They have an arrogant attitude that everything’s done and it’s going to sail through.

“But we have staying power and we are ready to do it all over again. What we really want to do now is bring this firmly into the public arena.

“The public exhibition was in and out in one day last Friday, but we need the plans to be on view for longer periods for people to see.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/29/prudhoe-residents-fume-over-plan-s-revival-61634-27563015/#ixzz13jxQqfaH

Subsidies will kill us, says Hexhams Egger plant chief
October 30th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2010/2/3/egger-uk-825340705.jpg

THE boss of one of Northumberland’s biggest businesses warned of a “potential crisis” in its industry yesterday – due to government subsidies for ‘green energy’ firms.

Bob Livesey, joint managing director at the Hexham-based Egger UK, believes the wood panel industry is under threat from the bio-energy sector, which enjoys significant government support.

Concerns have been raised for the 1,500 jobs associated with the plant because it says it is being priced out of the market by government-subsidised electricity generators.

And while Mr Livesey dismissed suggestions that jobs were at risk, he declared: “From an industry point of view, the crisis is real unless we can get the Government to change its policy in the next 12 to 18 months.

“We have tried to keep away from sensationalism about it and go through proper political channels – but we have to make sure that the Government sees sense.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/30/subsidies-will-kill-us-says-egger-plant-chief-61634-27569595/#ixzz13q4XKPp6

Hexham hotel to keep saint's name in its title
November 12th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/nov2010/0/3/philip-mcelroy-st-camillus-hospital-448867573.jpg

A 400 year old religious order, which ran a care centre in the Tyne Valley has had its prayers answered – by a hotel developer.

The Lay Camillian Family, which has its roots in 16th-Century Italy, ran St Camillus House in Oakwood, near Hexham, for more than half a century. It last operated as the Cancer Bridge treatment centre, which closed in 2001, since when the building has stood vacant.

Now plans have been put forward to reopen St Camillus House as a 17-bedroom hotel – with the name of Camillus preserved in its title.

The man behind the hotel plans, Tyneside developer Ben Houghton, said: “I definitely intend to keep the name of Camillus in the hotel title. It is a name well-known in the history of the area and it is right that it should be kept.”

Sunderland architect Mario Minchella, who drew up the plans, added: “It is a very eloquent landmark name and I am sure it would happen.”

Local residents have asked for assurances on traffic access and noise but Northumberland County Council’s west area planning committee, which meets in Hexham next week, is being recommended to give the hotel plans the green light.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/11/12/hexham-hotel-to-keep-saint-s-name-in-its-title-61634-27644323/#ixzz153hMdow4

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Hexham solar scheme given the chance to shine
November 19th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal


PLANNERS have agreed to visit the proposed site for a huge solar energy development after being told that it has the potential to map the country’s low-carbon future.

Farm owner Christopher Porter wants to install 18 solar panels in a field adjacent to his remote farmhouse at Steel, near Whitley Chapel in Hexhamshire.

The farm stands in Green Belt land and Northumberland county planning officers say the plans should be rejected to protect the area from “inappropriate development”. But the council’s area west planning committee has now put a decision on hold so that members can visit Mire House Farm to see for themselves whether the 19-inch-high panels should get the green light.

Coun Colin Horncastle, who represents the South Tynedale ward which includes Steel, said: “This is a brand new technology and the first I know of in this area.

“We are moving so fast. We are in a modern age now where everybody is told every day by energy companies, Governments and individual organisations that we must do something to preserve the planet and produce green energy.

“This application is the first of many that will be coming. At the moment there is nothing in our local plan that can handle it, but in two years’ time we will have the policies to handle it.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/11/19/hexham-solar-scheme-given-the-chance-to-shine-61634-27677119/#ixzz15ilS8fTe

Luxury golf complex at Close House Hotel, comes a step closer
January 4th 2011, by Tom Mullen, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jan2011/0/8/golf-close-house-graham-wylie-image-2-182669140.jpg

MULTI-MILLION pound plans to transform an 18th century mansion into a luxury golf and leisure facility for the North East are a step closer to becoming reality.

Businessman Graham Wylie has announced he will be closing his 400-acre Close House Hotel complex this month while major works to redevelop the venue are stepped up.

Software entrepreneur Mr Wylie bought the Georgian building in Wylam, Northumberland, from Newcastle University in 2004, and has since upgraded it to offer a restaurant and 19 rooms.

His vision is to transform the mansion, which already includes a golf academy, into a multi-million pound spa and leisure complex of the same quality as the famed Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland.

The venue will this month close as a £750,000 refurbishment of the public areas of the house gets under way alongside the installation of a new telephone and computer system. It is part of a carefully crafted plan by Mr Wylie and his team leading to the opening of a second golf course and state-of-the-art clubhouse this summer.

Further investment of £1m was also revealed last night for conversion of the stable block, taking the total number of bedrooms to 31.

Director Alan Graham, who was born in Prudhoe, Northumberland and is a long-time business partner of Mr Wylie, said: “If you look at the economy at the moment this could be seen as a bit of a bold step in the current climate.

“But this is something that we hope will bring many people to the North East and it’s part of our wider vision to do something really special here.

“We took the decision to shut the hotel during January to ensure that the hotel is in line with the rest of the venue.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/01/04/luxury-golf-complex-comes-a-step-closer-61634-27929574/#ixzz1A3nMB100

Hexham road ‘too dangerous to use’
January 8th 2011, by Paul Tully, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jan2011/1/7/road-100329409.jpg

HIGHWAYS chiefs are being asked to introduce a road closure safety system on a town centre street following a series of near-miss incidents in icy conditions.

A number of accidents on Hallstile Bank in Hexham both this winter and last culminated in a car skidding into a house wall on ice last month and only missing a woman pedestrian by inches.

The busy one-way single-track bank, leading north from Hexham’s central Market Place to a main exit road, is a popular “rat run” used by hundreds of cars and pedestrians a day.

But now people living on the historic bank are banding together to ask county road bosses to impose advance closures when winter weather is forecast – even though it could cause traffic congestion elsewhere in Hexham. Kevin Doonan, an estate agent on Hallstile Bank, said: “We have had a few near-misses and to be honest this is a really serious accident just waiting to happen.

“It came to a peak in December when a car lost control where the road bends and went straight on into the wall, missing a lady literally by a second or two.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/01/08/hexham-road-too-dangerous-to-use-61634-27950885/#ixzz1AR58QTqL

Hi NH, you seem to be a national (or at least local) treasure on this site and wondered if you had any material on Robbs of Hexham in the past - pictures, articles, plans?

As a lifelong Hexhamite Robbs has always played a major part in my life, I wrote about the near miss closures on other sites, and have always tinkered with the idea of writing a book about the store and its evolution.

One thing I remember about the store in its current Fore Street / Priestpopple location was the lovely sweeping staircases when you arrived at the Priestpopple entrance. When Joplings took over and started changing things in 1989 these went and were replaced by one scabby little staircase to the left.:bash: There has also been a lot of changes, for one site over such a relatively short space of time, in departments, shopfloor space and extensions.

Any info or referrals would be greatly appreciated.:banana:

Regards,

F

^^

I lived in Hexham off and on (long story!) as I was growing up. My parents both worked for long periods at the nearby 'Royal Hotel' and I was often left with the owners nanny (the owner was called Capt. Gardner) before I started school at the Sele infants school. With my parents, I was often in Robbs, as we walked past it everyday to get to the Royal Hotel.

I got to know Robbs well (again) from the 1980s, after my parents retired and lived nearby again (at Stagshaw).

Over many years I have accumulated large amounts of information on developments in, and the history of, the City of Newcastle, but that situation has not (in the way that I sometimes wish it had) extended to Hexham. I know the place well (as an occasional resident and frequent visitor) but I do not consider that I have any substantial knowledge about it.

Consequently, I have very few resources to call upon to attempt to answer your query, though I will search my records to see what I can find.

Best of luck in your research.

Deadline day for buying Hexham properties looms
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 18th 2011


SIGNIFICANT interest has been shown in four crown jewel properties in a Northumberland town as the deadline looms for bids.

The fate of the quartet of prestige county council-owned buildings in Hexham will be decided after final offers are made at midday on Friday, January 28.

Prospect House, Hexham House, The Old Grammar School and the Old Swimming Pool are all on the market as Northumberland County Council looks to make big budget savings.

The decision last autumn to sell the four historic properties – estimated to be worth a combined £4m – caused a storm and watchdogs are trying to ensure that any buyers and their future plans are carefully vetted.

Because the sale will be by formal tender, all bids must remain anonymous until deadline day.

Andrew Toes, of estate agent Rook Matthews Sayer, said: “In sale by formal tender, bids are placed anonymously in sealed envelopes and are opened on the nominated day.

“We are now reminding people that the deadline is not far away – the closing date is January 28 at midday.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/01/18/deadline-day-for-buying-hexham-properties-looms-61634-28003199/#ixzz1BNT67igG

11 secret bids in for prestige Hexham buildings
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 29th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2010/6/1/hexham-house-hexham-old-grammar-school-prospect-house-hexham-swimming-pool-245291978.jpg

A TOTAL of 11 secret offers have been made for Hexham’s “Crown Jewel” buildings – but the secrets will not be revealed until Monday.

The Northumberland County Council-owned Prospect House, Hexham House, Old Grammar School and Old Swimming Baths, estimated to be worth around £4m in all, are up for sale as the authority tries to raise much-needed money during the financial crunch.

They are on the market through a rare formal tender process – whereby bids are lodged anonymously in sealed envelopes.

Noon yesterday in the offices of estate agents Rook Matthews Sayer was the bids deadline – but now officials are waiting until Monday to consider the offers. Coun Roger Styring, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council, said yesterday: “There are 11 envelopes for the four properties which we will now not be opening until Monday.

“Until then, we do not know what the offers consist of.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/01/29/11-secret-bids-in-for-prestige-hexham-buildings-61634-28075689/#ixzz1CQF9NfML

Hexham not in favour of Northumberland
County Councils markets plans
October 6th 2010, by Paul Tully, The Journal


PLANS to improve markets in Northumberland have been dismissed as “stupid” and “rubbishy” by civic leaders in Hexham.

Last week Northumberland County Council released a report outlining plans to improve a number of markets in the county, including Hexham. The report was drawn up because of concerns that some markets in Northumberland had been in decline in recent years.

But town councillors in Hexham – which has a market dating back to the 13th century – have rejected the offer of help and say they want to take over their own market from the county.

Hexham’s deputy town council chairman Rad Hare said: “Let’s stop these long, stupid, rubbish strategy reports.

“We feel we have a more independent market, should get on with our own business – and do it better than anybody else.”

Hexham is wary of this new intervention, and Coun Ingrid Whale declared: “If we try to regulate things too much, we might achieve failure rather than success.”

Hexham Market, first granted a Charter by King Henry III in 1239 and run ever since in the shadow of the famous Abbey, was at a low ebb around the turn of the century but has revived considerably since.

There are 16 regular traders and in 2005 Country Life magazine voted Hexham England’s favourite market town – a move which brought a massive boost.

Now a recently-introduced monthly farmers’ market has also become a major success.

Coun Matty Donnelly added: “We could talk until we’re blue in the face but I believe strongly we should go to the stallholders – the people that earn their living every day.”

Hexham Town Mayor Coun Terry Robson said: “This is not good business practice. It is business strategy, not market strategy. I have to say I am not over-excited and over-enthusiastic about this report.

“Hexham is unique – what have we got in common with Blyth Market, for example? There is talk of partnerships, but we already have our own partnership with the Hexham Community Partnership – how many partnerships do we need? I think they have lost the plot on that one.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/10/06/plans-rubbished-for-northumberland-market-improvements-61634-27410369/2/#ixzz11ZFk7yII



Two things :-

I can't possibly see what they could do to improve the market structurally the only thing they could do to help would be to think of initiatives to get more traders and/or perhaps new traders.

What kind of name is Rad Hare? Sounds like someone from Ashington describing a ginger!

F

11 secret bids in for prestige Hexham buildings
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 29th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2010/6/1/hexham-house-hexham-old-grammar-school-prospect-house-hexham-swimming-pool-245291978.jpg

A TOTAL of 11 secret offers have been made for Hexham’s “Crown Jewel” buildings – but the secrets will not be revealed until Monday.

The Northumberland County Council-owned Prospect House, Hexham House, Old Grammar School and Old Swimming Baths, estimated to be worth around £4m in all, are up for sale as the authority tries to raise much-needed money during the financial crunch.

They are on the market through a rare formal tender process – whereby bids are lodged anonymously in sealed envelopes.

Noon yesterday in the offices of estate agents Rook Matthews Sayer was the bids deadline – but now officials are waiting until Monday to consider the offers. Coun Roger Styring, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council, said yesterday: “There are 11 envelopes for the four properties which we will now not be opening until Monday.

“Until then, we do not know what the offers consist of.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/01/29/11-secret-bids-in-for-prestige-hexham-buildings-61634-28075689/#ixzz1CQF9NfML


According to a similar report in the olde worlde dieting Hexham Courant (it gets thinner every week!) a councillor was overheard during a bit of skysports type banter saying that they'd actually received no interest whatsoever in these sites.

Don't know which one of these tales is true. I'm particularly worried about the fate of the Grammar School and Hexham House.

Btw at the end of last week there were a few trees felled at the back of the old Hexham Swimming Pool, just to the side where a path goes down to Haugh Lane. Not sure if this is a sign that development may be starting there?

F

Egger fears to be taken up with Government
by Brian Daniel, The Journal, February 3rd 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/feb2011/7/9/egger-uk-hexham-995004475.jpg

FEARS over the future of one of Northumberland’s biggest employers are to be taken up with the Government.

Bosses at Hexham-based wood supplier Egger UK have previously voiced fears that the industry it operates in is being threatened by Government-subsidised biomass companies.

Concerns have been raised for the 500 jobs at the plant and a further 1,000 associated posts, with Egger having to compete for wood supplies against subsidised firms which can pay more.

Bosses say the wood processing industry is in crisis and that urgent action is needed to get the Government to change its policy in 12 to 18 months.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/02/03/egger-fears-to-be-taken-up-with-government-61634-28108029/#ixzz1CtNyjfnR

Appeal launched to bridge Hexham Abbey funding gap
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 24th 2011


AN appeal has been launched to make up the shortfall in funding to breathe new life into part of an ancient Northumberland church.

Campaigners are hoping to pull in the extra £400,000 needed to reach the £3m needed to transform the 13th-Century monastery complex attached to Hexham Abbey into a state-of-the-art visitor centre.

Already £2.6m has been raised, including £1.8m in Heritage Lottery funding.

The final campaign push was launched yesterday in the hope of raising the remaining funds within the next twelve months. It’s hoped the centre can attract up to 100,000 visitors a year, bringing more than £3m into Hexham.

Abbey Rector, Canon Graham Usher, said: “We have a once-in-500-years opportunity to reunite this historic site and restore it to its full role in the community.

“It is a tremendous project which will fully propel this historic place into the 21st Century and the next 1,000 years of its life.”

The visitor and heritage centre will include exhibitions displaying the Abbey’s historic artefacts, many of which have not been on view, plus meeting rooms as well as an education centre, an audio-visual theatre and a herb garden.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/03/24/appeal-launched-to-bridge-hexham-abbey-funding-gap-61634-28392916/#ixzz1HVP11sTt

River Tyne hydro-electric plans move forward at Hexham
by Paul Tully, The Journal, April 7th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/apr2011/4/2/river-tyne-image-2-27987313.jpg

AMBITIOUS plans to generate hydro-electricity from the River Tyne in Northumberland have been announced.

Feasibility studies are being carried out into placing a hydro turbine in the Tyne at Hexham for a scheme that could eventually power all the houses in the town.

Although the plans are at an early stage, Hexham Town Council is backing the initiative from Hexham Community Partnership and the environmental group Transition Tynedale.

If successful, the scheme would produce carbon-free energy going into the National Grid and bring financial rewards for shareholders.

Northumberland County Council has part-funded the feasibility study being carried out by Inter-Hydro Technology of Kendal, Cumbria.

And while it would take up to three years to get the river hydro scheme up and running, Hexham Community Partnership chair Bob Hull said: “We have been considering it for some time and believe it could be possible.

“It needs a specific head of water through a turbine and below the bridge on the Tyne at Hexham is the area we are looking at.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/04/07/river-tyne-hydro-electric-plans-move-forward-at-hexham-61634-28474852/#ixzz1Ip3XFm4k

Emergency care will be put in place at Hexham
by Paul Tully, The Journal, April 29th 2011

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamGeneralHospital-NEWONE.jpg

THE emergency care crisis which left a top Northumberland hospital without night cover 14 times in four months will be at an end by June.

The recruitment of trained doctors will mean full emergency night staffing for Hexham General Hospital from June 1, Northumbria Healthcare director of medicine and emergency care Steve Russell told The Journal.

However, Mr Russell admitted there may still be four more nights in May when the hospital is left without accident and emergency cover.

A new specialist doctor taken on by reserve agency Northern Doctors Urgent Care will be based at Hexham for a guaranteed three nights per week from the start of June.

And with up to five A&E-trained doctors set to be added to the NDUC pool, there will be “effectively 100% cover”, Mr Russell said.

The unavailability of qualified doctors in the first quarter of 2011 has left ambulances being diverted 25 miles past Hexham to Newcastle, even for minor cases.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/04/29/emergency-care-will-be-put-in-place-at-hexham-61634-28602952/#ixzz1KtmIiEZu

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The ongoing story of these buildings has been regularly featured on this thread . .

No acceptable offers made for Hexham properties
by Paul Tully, The Journal, May 10th 2011


NO acceptable offers have been made for Hexham's 'Crown Jewel' buildings, prompting the town's Mayor to call for them to be sold off for the best possible price to try and stimulate the Northumberland economy.

Outgoing Hexham Mayor and County Councillor Terry Robson, says the four prestigious former Tynedale District Council properties should now be turned to financial advantage by the county “for the best reasonable offer”.

Prospect House, Hexham House, The Old Grammar School and The Old Swimming Pool in Hexham town centre were put on the market last year and were expected to raise a combined £4m.

But no suitable offers have been received and the market appears to have dried up.

Anxious to preserve the heritage of the buildings, local authority watchdogs have carefully vetted potential buyers.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/05/10/no-acceptable-offers-made-for-hexham-properties-61634-28663959/#ixzz1Lw0r6CYu

In continuation of ^^

Hexham’s Prospect House could be used as a hostel
by Paul Tully, The Journal, June 15th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2011/4/8/460-prospect-house-hexham-261868160.jpg

A FORMER council headquarters could be used for youth hostel accommodation under plans put to its owners.

Hexham Community Partnership has suggested the 120-year-old listed building would be suitable for budget accommodation as well as an arts facility including artists’ studios.

Partnership chairman Bob Hull says the plans are “very provisional” and a response is still awaited from its owners, Northumberland County Council.

But in the absence of concrete offers for the £1m-valued property behind the Market Square, the building continues to be used for civic purposes.

Last year the Jacobean-style Prospect House was put on the market along with Hexham House, the Old Swimming Pool and the Old Grammar School.

But none of the buildings have yet been sold and the purchase deadline has been extended indefinitely.

Mr Hull said: “We are looking at the possibility of converting Prospect House and we have proposed that to the county council.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/northumberland-sites/hexham-northumberland/hexham-news/2011/06/15/hexham-s-prospect-house-could-be-used-as-a-hostel-61634-28881496/#ixzz1PM9RiOTQ

Refuge Huts found at Roman Vindolanda Fort & Museum
BBC Newcastle, Tyne News Website, 20th June 2011

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/53448000/jpg/_53448461_3rdcenturybathhouseandsurroundingcivilianbuildings(michaelpearson,elevateddigitalsurveys).jpg
The largest collection of shoes from the Roman Empire
was also discovered at Vindolanda

Archaeologists at the Roman Vindolanda Fort & Museum have unearthed dozens of circular huts which they believe could have been used as temporary refuges. The excavation at the site in Hexham, Northumberland, has unearthed various finds from Roman Britain including letters, murder victims and shoes.

It is thought the huts were built during the invasion of Scotland under Emperor Septimius Severus (AD 208-211). Dr Andrew Birley described them as "remarkable structures".

An earlier fort at Vindolanda was completely levelled for the construction of the buildings, which could number into the hundreds. The find has intrigued archaeologists at the site as Roman soldiers did not build round houses.

They are interested as to why the Roman army would go to such lengths to accommodate such unusual structures.


Read More - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-13798523

Platform boost at Hexham Railway Station
By Helen Compson, Hexham Courant, 20th June 2011


PLANS are afoot for a £455,000 development project that would provide level access to Hexham railway station’s eastbound platform.

Northumberland County Council is seeking funding to construct a 25 bay car park adjacent to the platform, linked by steps and a ramp providing access for the disabled.

The improvements would allow direct access for the first time to the platform that is currently only accessible via an old cast-iron footbridge.

An access road will also be created between the new car park and the A695, through the Tyne Mills Industrial Estate.

Although the proposal is at an early stage – a funding application has yet to be decided on by the Department for Transport – it has already drawn the backing of key organisations across Tynedale.

The county council is now awaiting the outcome of its application for £350,000 from the Government’s Access for All programme, which funds level access improvements at railway stations for people with mobility difficulties.


Read More - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/platform-boost-1.848841?referrerPath=news

Hexham hydro power plan set for cash injection
by Alastair Craig, The Journal, June 27th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2011/6/0/hexham-councillor-terry-robson-pictured-at-hexham-bridge-where-the-hydro-may-be-built-on-the-river-tyne-160770894.jpg
Hexham councillor Terry Robson, at Hexham Bridge where the hydro may be built.

AMBITIOUS plans to harness the power of the River Tyne to create part of a town’s electricity supply could take a significant step forward this week.

The project team behind Hexham River Hydro is aiming to create a 100kw power generation plant on the banks of the river in Northumberland.

The scheme is currently in top spot in a national contest offering funding of up to £100,000 in grants.

Hexham River Hydro is up against 850 other projects hoping for a cash boost in the competition run by pro-green power group Energyshare.

With more than almost 400 supporters online, Hexham’s scheme hit the top spot on Friday with voting set to close on Thursday.

The Energyshare vote-off is backed by British Gas and River Cottage, the eco-friendly project faced by celebrity cook Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.

Team member Gillian Orrell last night urged people in the North East to log on and cast a vote in the energy “X Factor” and push Hexham Hydro into the next round.

The 'Transition Tynedale' website states that benefits of the hydro plant would be enormous, adding: “It’s a long and big job, but incredibly exciting.”

Hexham’s bid can be seen at www.energyshare.com/hrhuntil and people have until Thursday to pledge their support.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/06/27/hexham-hydro-power-plan-set-for-cash-injection-61634-28946499/#ixzz1QShR0qsR

Challenge to name new Prudhoe landmark building
by Tony Henderson, The Journal, June 28th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2011/8/8/620-prudhoe-community-partnership-s-yvonne-probert-outside-the-as-yet-unnamed-community-building-290053534.jpg

IT IS KNOWN as The Building with No Name, but now people are being urged to change all that and come up with ideas for what will be a showpiece feature of a Northumberland town’s main street.

The regeneration charity Prudhoe Community Partnership is behind the new £1.5m building which is now taking shape on the town’s Front Street.

Designed by award-winning Newcastle architects Mosedale Gillatt, the community building is on the site of the former Prudhoe library, which was demolished earlier this year.

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2011/2/3/460-artist-s-impression-of-the-new-community-building-in-prudhoe-96326380.jpg

When it opens next spring, the building will house a new library and a range of voluntary and community groups and services which are currently based at the partnership’s Info Point 500 yards away on Front Street.

The partnership has launched an appeal for people to come up with a suitable name for the landmark. Yvonne Probert, project officer for Prudhoe Community Partnership, said: “It can’t go on much longer being called The Building With No Name. It hardly rolls off the tongue and wouldn’t sound good when answering the telephone.

“Prudhoe has no job centre or council offices, but now this building will be a one-stop shop for services, advice and guidance.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/06/28/challenge-to-name-new-prudhoe-landmark-61634-28952190/#ixzz1Qal2BKYf

Go North East purchases Hexham Bus Station from Arriva
by Peter McCusker, The Journal, June 29th 2011


MAJOR regional bus operator Go North East has purchased Hexham bus station from rival Arriva as it looks to secure and improve its services in the area.

Go North East says it aims to ‘maximise the efficiency of its services in the centre of Hexham, to improve customer service and to safeguard local jobs’.

Go Ahead is one of the UK’s leading providers of passenger transport services and its North East service provider, Go North East, is the main bus operator in the North of England.

Neil Robinson, property manager, at Go Ahead, said: “This is a very important transaction for us as it secures our base in Hexham enabling us to improve the service we offer to our customers in that area.


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2011/06/29/go-north-east-purchases-bus-station-from-arriva-51140-28957600/

GO are probably the best bus operator in the N.East so if they take over the majority of services to Hexham it can only be good for the town.

Historic Corbridge Station footbridge to get exact replica
by Paul Tully, The Journal, July 9th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jul2011/1/6/bridge-14975903.jpg

ONE of the earliest railway station footbridges in Britain – at Corbridge in the Tyne Valley – is to be replaced with an exact replica.

The cast-iron Corbridge Station footbridge, built in 1847, has been closed after coming to the end of its lifespan.

But now plans have been laid to have a modern steel replica in place by March 2012.

As Corbridge Station is a listed building, the replica bridge will need permission from Northumberland County Council.

Network Rail has commissioned structural engineers to devise the new bridge and the image shown here illustrates the similarity of design to the mid-19th-Century original.

Network Rail project manager James Hall said: “The old bridge is very much life-expired and no longer had the capacity for pedestrians to walk over it.

Corbridge Station was constructed in the 1830s as part of the Newcastle & Carlisle Railway which closely followed the Stockton & Darlington Railway and the famous pioneering engine, Stephenson’s Rocket, devised by George Stephenson of nearby Wylam.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/07/09/historic-corbridge-station-footbridge-to-get-exact-replica-61634-29021445/#ixzz1RawhGUow

Councillor demanding public meeting over Prudhoe Town Centre re-development plans
by Paul Tully, The Journal, July 20th 2011


A COUNCILLOR is pressing home demands for a full-scale public meeting over stalled town centre redevelopment plans.

Jennifer McGee, who represents Prudhoe North, has lodged an official request with Northumberland County Council for a meeting to air public concerns over the Duke of Northumberland’s proposals for Prudhoe town centre.

Coun McGee, who chairs Prudhoe Town Council, said: “I’ve had to stick my head above the parapet, but I’m entitled to do this.

“There has been a huge amount of public interest and concern over the redevelopment plans, and people have called for public meetings without it being progressed. I have got a lot of concerns myself, and as ward councillor for the area, people have also come to me with their concerns.”

Coun McGee’s move is the latest twist in a four-year saga which has seen the Duke’s plans approved, then challenged, and finally quashed by the High Court.

The proposals for 8,000 square metres of retail units, office space, 118 dwellings, 34 residential apartments, a decked car park, relocation of the United Services Club plus access and other alterations to Front Street were legally challenged by the Co-op.

A High Court judge agreed with the Co-op’s submission that not enough environmental impact data had been supplied to the former Tynedale Council planners when they gave the green light in 2009.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/07/20/prudhoe-north-councillor-demanding-public-meeting-over-duke-s-town-centre-61634-29087020/#ixzz1SdLxX1pG

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On the Old Adverts thread, the below edition of Newcastle Life magazine was featured, containing a LOT of adverts and articles from "Hexham in the 1960s" . . .

Volume 9, No. 69, June 1966 . . .


http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/NewcastleLife-Vol9No69June1966_0009.jpg


There are quite a few adverts for places in HEXHAM in this issue, starting with THE ROYAL HOTEL.

An important place (The Royal Hotel) for me personally. Both my parents worked in the hotel in the years before I started school, and I was partially 'brought up' by the hotel owner's (mentioned in the advert, 'Captain Gardner') Nanny, in the private quarters at the very top of the hotel.

I remember she was called Audrey, a very nice lady . . .


http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/NewcastleLife-Vol9No69June1966_0004.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/NewcastleLife-Vol9No69June1966_0001.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/NewcastleLife-Vol9No69June1966_0003.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/NewcastleLife-Vol9No69June1966_0002.jpg

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Volunteers join forces to benefit Hexham's Tyne Green Park
by Paul Tully, The Journal August 13th 2011


VOLUNTEERS have joined forces to set up a special group to oversee the development of a riverside park.

The Friends of Tyne Green Country Park in Hexham aims to get everyone working together to make the best use of the grassland area on the south bank of the Tyne.

The site has been owned by local authorities since it was opened as pleasure grounds for the public in 1887 in celebration of Queen Victoria’s golden jubilee. Now, in the approach of another monarch’s golden jubilee, people who use the Tyne Green facilities have teamed up with Northumberland County Council and other organisations including Hexham Town Council, Hexham Community Partnership and the Tyne Rivers Trust.

The first meeting of the Friends is set to take place at Tynedale Golf Club on Wednesday .

Tynedale Golf Club member Alex Kerr is the driving force behind the idea. He said: “Through this new group we hope to develop better communication between regular users of the park, as well as improving the quality of information available to visitors and developing better signage, information leaflets and web-presence.

The town council has opened a special playpark in the centre of the Green. A new cafe – Cafe Enna – is open and available for hire, and will form the main venue for the Friends’ group meetings. Sam Talbot, green spaces officer at the county council, said: “The vibrancy of parks such as Tyne Green relies on the active involvement of user groups.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/08/13/volunteers-join-forces-to-benefit-hexham-s-tyne-green-park-61634-29226265/#ixzz1UtWqgsoo

Town Plan is vital for Hexham - former Mayor
by Paul Tully, The Journal, August 23rd 2011


A TEAM of councillors is pressing ahead with a Town Plan for Hexham which will take the town into the future. They will look at all aspects of Hexham, from industry to transport and leisure.

Former Mayor Terry Robson, who has played a pivotal role, says: “One of the most important things for growth in Hexham is our link with the west".

"The dualling of the A69 from Hexham through to Carlisle is very important, if we could open up that route to the west it would be so much better. The strategy route should not be the A66, which is further south and too often blocked by snow in winter. It should be the A69.”

The former mayor also wants to see closer integration of Hexham with the parishes of Acomb and Sandhoe to the north of the town. Sandhoe parish includes the industrial belt from Bridge End to Egger, close to the A69.

Coun Robson says: “I think Acomb, Hexham and Sandhoe should work very much more closely together. “We should be working hand-in-hand with the neighbours, and that doesn’t happen sufficiently now. “There are issues which are so important to all three communities and Hexham does not include the main industrial belt from Bridge End to Egger.

“That plot of land should be part of Hexham, but it is part of Sandhoe. “I feel there’s a lot of commonality between Hexham, Sandhoe and Acomb - and I would like to see a closer relationship between the three parishes.”

The Town Plan working group is being set up following a decision of Hexham Town Council to formulate a Town Plan.

There has been nothing similar in the last quarter-century and a wide range of topics will come under the microscope before a firm path ahead is laid.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/08/23/a69-dualling-is-vital-for-hexham-former-mayor-61634-29284176/#ixzz1VpwhSmFV

People can shape Hexham’s future
by Paul Tully, The Journal, August 27th 2011


THE people of Hexham will be asked to help shape the future of their town. The expertise and views of the public could become an essential part of the Hexham town plan in the years ahead.

An inaugural meeting of the five-strong working group set up to pilot the plan has laid the early groundwork.

Coun Judy Lloyd, who heads the group, said: “We will be having a launch event, and asking for people to come forward with particular interests and expertise.

“This will be with a view to them being either on a steering group or, if they have a particular interest, perhaps put their name forward to be on the working group. We will welcome the views of the public.

“Our intention would be to alert as many people as possible to the fact that this process is starting and to encourage people who have areas of particular interest, or particular skills or knowledge, to come forward if they feel they could contribute.”

Coun Derek Kennedy, one of five town councillors on the initial working group, said it was hoped to involve community groups, such as the Hexham Partnership, schools councils and Churches Together.

“We have a joint objective to improve the lifestyle of Hexham,” he said, “and we are trying to bring a plan together as a combined body.

“There are lots of bodies, each with their own objectives, but there is no strategic plan for Hexham.

“We are at a very early stage of general investigation, but will report back to the town council in the near future.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/08/27/people-can-shape-hexham-s-future-61634-29312214/#ixzz1WDzSx6VC

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Was in Hexham today, and discovered that . . http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/tony-brown-beales-1.719308!image/3924790701.jpg_gen/derivatives/slideshow/3924790701.jpg . . is NO MORE !!!


Very quietly (without much of a formal announcement, according to various staff members I spoke to today) one day last week it just changed its name to that of its new owners . . . BEALES.

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/30thAugust2011001.jpg
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/30thAugust2011002.jpg

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http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/RobbsnamechangedtoBeales-spottedon30thAugust2011.jpg

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Very quietly (without much of a formal announcement, according to various staff members I spoke to today) one day last week it just changed its name to that of its new owners . . . BEALES.

Well spotted! :)

The Hexham Courant mentioned the name change very briefly three weeks ago: http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/robbs-name-disappears-from-store-1.865808?referrerPath=home/2.3307

I understand that all the other Beales-owned stores have also changed to a Beales fascia - there were four more, I think, that still traded under their own names, in Yeovil (Denners), Bolton and Rochdale (Whitakers) and Southport (Broadbent & Boothroyds).

To be honest, it's hard to argue with these actions given that Robbs wouldn't exist at all if Beales hadn't bought it last year.

I imagine the change reflects Beales' desire for growth, both online and through its expanded store estate - now up to 33 stores from 11 before the Robbs takeover. As John Lewis, Debenhams and House of Fraser have all seemed to decide in the past, it's easier to build a nationwide, multichannel department store business under a single identity. However, there's always going to be an element of sadness at the loss of historic names that have so much resonance within their local communities.

Fentimans of Hexham appeal for help tracing mystery men in photographs
by Sarah Scott, The Journal, September 2nd 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2011/9/0/fentimans-image-1-263765073.jpg

THE owners of a popular lemonade brewed in the North East are hoping to uncover the founder’s family tree through these pictures. Fentimans, the Hexham-based botanical brewers, has been putting bottles of old-fashioned pop on to the shelves of pubs and restaurants across the country since the since the beginning of the 1900s.

Now bosses at the company are asking Journal readers to help them piece together the Fentiman family tree. The company, which is now run by founder Thomas Fentiman’s great-grandson Eldon Robson, was recently sent some photographs which had been found in an attic in an envelope simply marked Fentimans.

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2011/6/8/fentimans-image-2-485217981.jpg

But the pictures remain a mystery as no one at the company can identify who the people pictured are or where the snaps were taken, although they believe they could have been on the roof of one of the breweries.

The company was forced to close down in the mid-1960s due to stiff competition from supermarkets but was reopened by Eldon Robson in 1988 who continues to use the same recipe.

Fentimans would welcome any information that readers have about the men in these photographs and anything at all to do with the Fentiman family.

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2011/6/6/fentimans-image-3-794009307.jpg

The botanical brewers are hoping that someone interested in genealogy might be willing to do some research, and the company would give this person full access to the available archives.

For more information contact Tiffany McKirdy, at Fentimans on 01434 609847.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/09/02/fentimans-appeals-for-help-tracing-mystery-men-in-photographs-61634-29350525/#ixzz1WnHYsXse

Prudhoe development plans blasted at meeting
by Paul Tully, The Journal, September 6th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2010/2/1/two-of-the-illustrations-detailing-the-proposed-changes-in-prudhoe-that-were-displayed-previously-in-the-town-984349781.jpg

PLANS to redevelop the centre of a Northumberland town were last night slammed as "a disgrace" by angry residents. People in Prudhoe face being “encased in a concrete wall” with their lifestyles destroyed, a public meeting in the town was told.

The Duke of Northumberland’s £30m plans for a new supermarket, housing, office space and a multi-storey car park in the East Tynedale town have raised storms of protest since they were lodged five years ago.

Defeated once in the High Court, revised plans are back on the table – and at a meeting last night attended by 400 people, the Duke’s Northumberland Estates officer Colin Barnes faced a barrage of questions.

An acoustic wall over two metres high is planned for the Neale Street and Cranleigh Grove areas of Prudhoe to offset the extra noise the scheme would generate.

But former Prudhoe resident Peter Gallagher, now living in London, said: “It is an absolute disgrace. To encase people in a concrete wall, destroying their lifestyle and living conditions, is disgraceful – this should have been kicked into the Tyne long ago.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/09/06/prudhoe-development-plans-blasted-at-meeting-61634-29369219/#ixzz1X9gypiNl

^^

Prudhoe traders seek new meeting on town plans
by Paul Tully, The Journal, September 8th 2011


TRADERS’ leaders in Prudhoe are to seek a face-to-face meeting with planning chiefs to thrash out town centre redevelopment plans.

The Duke of Northumberland wants to see the area redeveloped with a supermarket, housing, offices, retail and a multi-storey car park.

The £25m plans from his business arm, Northumberland Estates, have been met with strong opposition – and following a major public meeting on Monday, the differences remain.

Objectors say the nature of the town would be ruined if the plans go ahead, but those in favour say it would give provide a major economic boost.

John Short, Prudhoe Traders’ Association chairman, now wants to form a delegation to meet county planners and debate areas of fact.

Disputes include the height of acoustic barriers near houses, figures on official documents and noise levels.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/09/08/prudhoe-traders-seek-new-meeting-on-town-plans-61634-29384197/#ixzz1XLazd6G4

Wind Turbine exhibition at Hexham Racecourse
By The Journal, September 2nd 2011


A PUBLIC exhibition on plans for two wind turbines at Hexham Racecourse will be held next week.

Visitors will be able to inspect the proposals, which are at the study and assessment stage.

They will be able to discuss their views with racecourse executives and consultants.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/northumberland-sites/hexham-northumberland/hexham-events/2011/09/02/turbine-exhibition-at-hexham-racecourse-61634-29350838/#ixzz1YCGxDbeQ

Hexham Racecourse chief defends wind turbines plan
by Paul Tully, The Journal, September 14th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2011/6/0/charles-enderby-755609628.jpg

A RACECOURSE BOSS last night defended plans for wind turbine energy as “essential” for the course’s future.

Charles Enderby, chief executive of Hexham Racecourse, said there was no alternative to the turbines in the face of a looming six-figure drop in Levy Board income.

Opposition to proposals for two 150ft turbines on the picturesque hilltop course at Hexham is growing ahead of an application going before county planners.

John Barker of Whitfield, who is leading early objections, said: “This is an elevated site in an area of high landscape value very close to the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty boundary.

“There is a very powerful principle at stake here because if permission for this scheme is given ‘on-the-nod’, then developers will feel they can put their turbines simply anywhere.”

Mr Barker is urging “anyone and everyone” to join him in opposition, and pleading with the racecourse to explore alternatives such as solar panels.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/09/14/hexham-racecourse-chief-defends-wind-turbines-plan-61634-29417161/#ixzz1YCHnQbPd

New opposition to Hexham Racecourse wind turbines
by Paul Tully, The Journal, September 17th 2011


A BUSINESSMAN has warned that racegoers will turn their back on Hexham Racecourse if it goes ahead with plans for wind turbines. David Shiel, managing director of Explain Market Research in Newcastle, says he will pull out of hospitality at the picturesque hill-top course unless the turbines plan is abandoned.

The course, facing a major drop in Horse Racing Levy Board revenue, urgently needs to find other sources of income.

But Mr Shiel declared: “If wind turbines are put up, I would not go back to Hexham Racecourse again and I think a lot of other people, including potential sponsors, would not go back either. “I have entertained clients and I have been entertained at Hexham but I would not wish to see turbines on what is a marvellous landscape.”

Racecourse chief executive Charles Enderby said: “We have done substantial research with our racegoers and Mr Shiel is the first person to show his disapproval. The main concern for racegoers is that Hexham continues as a racecourse.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/09/17/new-opposition-to-hexham-racecourse-wind-turbines-61634-29438632/#ixzz1YCIVljHU

New Heritage and Visitor Centre for Hexham Abbey
The Journal, September 28th 2011


Hexham Abbey has passed another landmark on its way to the £3m target figure to fund the conversion of the monastic buildings to a modern heritage and visitor centre.

The complex, which adjoins the Abbey and until last April housed Tynedale Magistrates’ Court, dates in part back to the 13th Century.

“This is a tremendously-important project for the Abbey and for the region as a whole, and it is a real landmark for the appeal to pass £2.7m,” said Canon Usher.

“People understand the spiritual and cultural role the Abbey plays in the life of the town and Tynedale, while local businesses fully appreciate the economic value of Hexham Abbey to the area.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/09/28/hexham-abbey-glass-artist-to-be-revealed-next-week-61634-29499205/2/#ixzz1ZEbUYeMw

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The below sounds a very interesting project. Perhaps, even at this early stage, it should have its own "Project Thread" set up.

BUT, on which part of our forum should a project thread for this be located?

It could be on the 'Sunderland and Durham' forum, as it is near Ebchester in County Durham though it is being built in Northumberland. It could be on the 'Communal Area' of the N E England Forum, though that does not get many visitors which would restrict the quantity of posts onto the thread. Finally, it could be on the 'Newcastle Forum', as it is to be built in an area of Northumberland to the West of Newcastle that is covered by the Newcastle Forum (we go further west in fact, as far west as Hexham).

So, what do you think, where should a Project Thread be set up?

A potential Thread Title would be - Veterans Retreat Village | Northumberland | Various | Pre-planning

Here is the article in this mornings JOURNAL, announcing the project . . .


A ‘Village’ to be built in Northumberland for veterans
by Tom Mullen, The Journal, October 4th 2011

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/1_cycle_home-1.jpg

A PIONEERING £27m care “village” for injured soldiers is to be created in the North East of England.

The Veteran’s Retreat Village, which will be home to some 300 wounded or emotionally-traumatised servicemen and women, will be the first of its kind to be built in Britain.

Artist’s impressions reveal how the facility will look when it is built near Ebchester, County Durham, on a 55-acre plot of land just over the border in Northumberland.

A group of veterans helped launch the project in a walk-about event, where detailed plans for the project were unveiled.

It will include a fully-staffed 90-bed nursing and care facility, leisure centre with swimming pool, woodland walks, lakes and a donkey sanctuary.

Veterans’ Retreat, the charity behind the project, used the event to kick-start its Building Our Heroes a Home campaign, and hopes to raise initial funds in excess of £100,000 to get the project off the ground.

The project is being led by 64-year-old former military policeman Bill Liddle, who hopes the village will be completed within five years, with the first 20 bungalows finished by 2013.

The Duke and Duchess of Northumberland are the charity’s official patrons.

Mr Liddle said: “The dream of Veterans’ Retreat Village has now moved one step closer to reality.

Veteran’s Retreat will host numerous fundraising events and activities throughout the year, including its inaugural black tie auction ball in early 2012 in Newcastle.

More details are available at www.veteransretreat.org.uk


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/10/04/village-built-for-veterans-is-perfect-retreat-61634-29532135/#ixzz1ZngAbBDg

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^^

In the absence of further comment (there have been some exchanges on the Admin Thread about this) I will set up the Project Thread on the Newcastle Forum, in due course.

£700,000 could be wasted on Hexham fire station plan
by Paul Tully, The Journal, October 7th 2011


MORE than £700,000 could be wasted if a planned new fire station in Northumberland falls victim to Government spending cuts, it has been warned.

The figure has been spent in the last two years on buying and preparing land in the west of Hexham to build a new multi-million-pound station.

But cutbacks have stalled the plans - and unless alternative funding is found the site may be left unused.

Hexham’s existing 40-year-old fire station on an industrial estate at Tyne Mills cannot be developed under planning rules as it is on an identified flood plain.

The station flooded in 2005 and was accepted as a “corporate risk” in September 2008.

Plans for a new station on West Road were revealed in 2009 and the site at West Point – a former car showroom – was purchased in early 2010.

Ranked as critical priority, Hexham’s new station was part of the North East Fire and Rescue Authorities business case presented to central government as part of a Private Finance Initiative. However, in October 2010 the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review withdrew support for the project and the Hexham plan was left in limbo.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/10/07/700-000-could-be-wasted-on-hexham-fire-station-plan-61634-29553985/#ixzz1a5PExn8M

Residents to fight Duke's Prudhoe Town Centre plans
by Paul Tully, The Journal, October 15th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/oct2011/7/3/prudhoe-894829771.jpg
Ian Hutchinson chairs the public meeting in Prudhoe.

OBJECTORS to the Duke of Northumberland’s large-scale redevelopment proposals for Prudhoe town centre have pledged to fight to the last – even if a planning decision goes against them this week.

After a five-year planning battle which has included a High Court overrule, 5,000 objections, petitions and heated public meetings, Northumberland County Council’s area west planning committee is being recommended to approve the controversial £30m plans.

The committee meets in Hexham on Wednesday – and angry scenes are expected. The meeting has been moved from its usual venue of Prospect House to Hexham auction mart, which has higher capacity.

John Robson, of the Take Pride in Prudhoe action group, vowed: “Even if the plans get passed on Wednesday, there is still a long way to go. A lot of hoops have still got to be jumped through. “If necessary, we would go all the way and call it in to the Secretary of State for a full public inquiry.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/10/15/prudhoe-residents-vow-to-fight-duke-s-plans-61634-29599043/#ixzz1apu53fVY

Decision looms on Duke's £30m plans for Prudhoe
by Paul Tully, The Journal, October 17th 2011


THE economic crisis in the North East has added to the case for the commercial redevelopment of a Northumberland town centre, it has been claimed.

The Duke of Northumberland’s estates office says commercial growth and new housing is increasingly important for Prudhoe in East Tynedale.

As a planning decision looms on the contentious £30m plans this week, the Duke’s Northumberland Estates development director Colin Barnes issued a four-point summary of why the plans should be given the go-ahead.

“Firstly, we have voluntarily carried out an environmental impact assessment, which once again shows there are no significant adverse effects.

“Secondly, all statutory consultees and various council departments have again supported it.

“Thirdly, the economic situation in the region has worsened and the need for commercial growth and housing has increased.

“Finally, the Government has issued new national guidance calling for the planning system to deliver growth.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/10/17/decision-looms-on-duke-s-30m-plans-for-prudhoe-61634-29606144/#ixzz1b1cCWlqB

...opening in the old Heron Foods on Priestpopple on Thursday (17 November)!

http://www.soultsretailview.co.uk/2011/11/07/poundland-to-take-over-heron-foods-site-in-hexham/

http://www.poundland.co.uk/corporate-information/new-store-openings/

Hexham Abbey development details revealed
by Paul Tully, The Journal, November 19th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/nov2011/2/1/hexham-abbey-804553376.jpg

HEXHAM Abbey is close to reaching its £3m target for redevelopment plans which will bring a new look to the 1,000-year-old building. As fundraising enters the final furlong, detailed plans of the changes the Norman abbey will undergo have been revealed.

They include a new main entrance – a porched walkway to the south-west door of the abbey in the cloisters. The entrance, adding to the present front entrance on Beaumont Street, will stand alongside the ambitious new visitor centre which forms the centrepiece of the new development.

The abbey’s monastic workshops are to be converted into a spectacular exhibition space with a cafe to serve the visitor centre.

Abbey Heritage Development Manager Jane Gibson said the £3m appeal was on course to meet a building start date of autumn 2012 and the target opening date of spring 2013.

“We are all very excited now it is beginning to come together. Hopefully by about May we will be going ahead with the bricks and mortar.”


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/11/19/hexham-abbey-development-details-revealed-61634-29803258/#ixzz1e8vaXWm4

Corbridge Bridge to be closed to heavy goods vehicles
The Journal, November 30th 2011


A HISTORIC bridge across the Tyne is set to be permanently closed to heavy goods vehicles after weakness was found in its structure. The 17th-Century Corbridge Bridge, a scheduled ancient monument, faces an £825,000 repair bill to enable it to safely carry HGVs above 7.5 tonnes.

Two of the 480ft stone bridge’s seven spans have been found to be less able to carry heavy traffic, but freight bosses say the seven-mile detour to cross the river at either Riding Mill or Hexham is an unwanted burden.

The county council is being recommended to replace the present temporary weight limit – due to run out in April – with a permanent one, though excluding buses.

That has annoyed the Freight Transport Association, whose regional head of policy, Malcolm Bingham, said: “If there is a weak bridge, why let a 10-tonne bus over it? It’s either weak or it isn’t.

“This will create extra mileage using more fuel and therefore making more emissions. “The rationale of letting buses over the bridge but not HGVs doesn’t stand up.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/11/30/corbridge-bridge-to-be-closed-to-heavy-goods-vehicles-61634-29866754/#ixzz1fBCcU2qf

That has annoyed the Freight Transport Association, whose regional head of policy, Malcolm Bingham, said: “If there is a weak bridge, why let a 10-tonne bus over it? It’s either weak or it isn’t.


Because there's a big difference between a 10-tonne bus and a 44-tonne HGV ?

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Further to a number of earlier posts on this thread, about this . . .

Hexham Hydro team hits the £100,000 jackpot
by Paul Tully, The Journal, December 5th 2011


IT'S power to the people of Hexham, after the Tyne Valley town clinched a national prize of £100,000 towards an ambitious water-energy scheme.

After six months of campaigning, the Hexham River Hydro community project came out first ahead of hundreds of UK competitors in a countrywide ballot.

The vote result was announced in London on Saturday evening – and Hexham took over 30% of the vote to leave its rivals well behind.

Hexham Community Partnership chairman Bob Hull and Gillian Orrell, co-ordinator of environmental group Tynedale Transition, were there for the vote. Yesterday, both hailed a marvellous achievement.

Bob said: “It has been a huge team effort by the community in Hexham, which pays tribute to the community spirit there is here.

“Hexham Hydro will be a flagship project and from now it’s all systems go to get it completed and in place.”


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/12/05/hexham-hydro-team-hits-the-100-000-jackpot-61634-29894198/#ixzz1feL3CNbB

Because there's a big difference between a 10-tonne bus and a 44-tonne HGV ?


10 ton bus is its dry weight empty, put say 100 people on it plus fuel must push it up a fair bit.

Yes 100 people could be 10 tonnes themselves. Surprised the FTA man didn't quote a higher weight.

Presumably the point is that the council know how many buses cross that bridge a day, and about how heavy they are - and can therefore take a decision that says, yes if that is all the heavy stuff that is crossing it will be okay. But not if we also have arbitrary numbers of HGVs in the mix.

And I would also guess that the bus operators have been warned that increased traffic could result in their exemption being ended.

New proposal to tackle Hexham car parking row
by Paul Tully, The Journal, December 14th 2011


A LONG-RUNNING row over parking availability in a Northumberland market town looks set to be resolved. The traffic squeeze on busy Hencotes, in the west of Hexham, has forced the issue to the top of the agenda in recent months.

On the north side of the two-way road are homes, shops and businesses, and regular yellow-line parking for drivers who can find no alternative while on the south side is St Cuthbert’s Terrace, a proud street of traditional stone houses with a limited number of residents’ parking bays.

A row broke out when it was suggested that part of St Cuthbert’s Terrace could be used for visitors’ short-stay parking and after months of talks with Northumberland County Council, a compromise now seems to have been reached.

Plans are now in place for five new short-stay parking bays on Hencotes itself, with eight of the 24 residential bays on St Cuthbert’s Terrace available for short-stay parking for all.

Law firm director Philip Smith, who lives on St Cuthbert’s Terrace, said: “We would have preferred to have seen it all just left as it was, but if that cannot happen then this proposal is significantly better than any of those that have gone before. Some of the occupants of the houses towards the bottom of our street still feel aggrieved by it, but the majority of the street is in favour."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/12/14/new-proposal-to-tackle-hexham-car-parking-row-61634-29949727/#ixzz1gVAgGn8r

I'm a newbie here.

I'm a member of a vehicle forum, and an old (1952) photograph of Hexham Priestpopple has been posted by a member:-

http://www.truckandbusforum.com/gallery/files/1/1/2/4/019.jpg


The photograph was taken from a building that no longer exists - it was in front of what, I believe, is now Poundland (was Heron Foods).
The ground floor shop was an electrical equipment shop run by Oswald Porteous. His son was in my class at school.

I couldn't remember the details until I searched and found this Tyne Valley forum, then as I compiled my question it came back to me!
(so I have answered my own question . . . ) :|

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For me G-CPTN, that ^^ is an excellent 'first post' on this forum, as it brings back so many childhood memories for me!

On the left of your photo is THE ROYAL HOTEL, Hexham, as it was in the early 1950s when both my parents were working there, my Father looking after the purchasing of goods for the hotel, and then in the evening he was hotel barman, the bar being just to the 'left' of the central archway.

My Mother worked part-time in the Hotel Off Licence, which was just to the 'right' of the central archway.

Both places can be seen clearly in your photo G-CPTN, my parents were probably in there when it was taken!!

I mentioned this briefly, in an earlier post on this thread . .

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On the Old Adverts thread, the below edition of Newcastle Life magazine was featured, containing a LOT of adverts and articles from "Hexham in the 1960s" . . .

An important place (The Royal Hotel) for me personally. Both my parents worked in the hotel in the years before I started school, and I was partially 'brought up' by the hotel owner's (mentioned in the advert, 'Captain Gardner') Nanny, in the private quarters at the very top of the hotel.

I remember she was called Audrey, a very nice lady . . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/NewcastleLife-Vol9No69June1966_0004.jpg
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So - I have now sorted out a few 'personal souvenirs' (kept by my father) from those 1950s days, shown below, which supplement the memories that your photo has re-kindled . . .


1 - Another EVENING CHRONICLE photo from the early 1950s, as can be seen, it was taken on the same day! I bought a print of this photo from the Chronicle when it was a 'Remember When' article in the paper in the 1990s . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/RoyalHotelHexhamintheearly1950sGranandMamenhanced.jpg


2 - An original 1955 Menu, from the Royal Hotel - which was typed by my father, as part of his job there . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/1955RoyalHotelBLUEMenuCardaMASSIVEmemoryofmine001.jpg


3 - Another 1955 Menu Card . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/1955RoyalHotelBLUEMenuCardaMASSIVEmemoryofmine.jpg


4 - A 1950s Royal Hotel Letterheading . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/1955RoyalHotelBLUEMenuCardaMASSIVEmemoryofminebanner.jpg


5 - My Favourite : On the left is a Royal Hotel Wine List, in a photo that I took recently, and on it can be seen the first known SCRAWLINGS on this earth, by yours truly!!
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/November2008007.jpg

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Yes, I remember Captain Arthur Gardner (and, of course, the Royal Hotel).

Your lower photograph of Priestpopple was indeed taken at the same time (same parked cars and the petrol tanker delivering to George and Jobling's garage).

I was also (from about 1960) a regular (though infrequent) customer of the Royal off-licence and remember the lady who was, presumably, your mother. I was also an occasional customer of the hotel bar (not a regular).

I realise that this thread is intended to be devoted to developments, (rather than nostalgia) and I follow 'developments' with interest - not the least being the bus station saga which seems to get shelved whenever it gets 'too difficult'. This has gone on for as long as I can remember.

At one stage there was a proposal to relocate to the site adjacent to the 'new' Cooperative store (now Marks and Spencer) with pedestrian access through to the existing bus station site.

The suggested relocation to Loosing Hill, though not too far distant, seemed flawed for various reasons, not the least of which was inadequate facilities for the crew rest room, and the earlier suggestion of moving the bus station to the railway station, whilst 'logical' in some respects would have meant serious disadvantages to the town.

My personal preference would be to utilise the current empty space that was George and Jobling (I was there when it burned down - though not involved I must point out!), but it seems that it is too valuable to be used for transport when there is 'the potential' for commerce (is there really scope for more shops in Hexham which seems to have been dying over the past decades?). The preponderance of charity shops and pound stores and discount shops seem to outweigh what was once a thriving shopping precinct (Robbs and Robinsons) - but that was several decades ago I admit.
That Robbs has struggled over recent years suggests that things are bad.

Tesco (and ALDI) have moved the emphasis away from the town centre (together with Waitrose and Marks and Spencer - the Coop died when Tesco opened, despite being located near the social housing) and it seems that the rot started when the Auction Mart moved from Argyll Terrace to Tyne Green and the farmers no longer brought their wives to town on a Tuesday. The Market is a mere shadow of its former self - one day recently there was just the fruit stall! - thought the Farmers' Markets seem to be well attended and patronised, as are the 'festive' events.
The November 5th bonfire had an amazing turnout of spectators, so there are people around, though they seem to prefer to shop where they can park for free, even if this means driving 'out of town'.

There are other problems than parking that need to be addressed, but it seems to be the primary cause of dissent.

Yes, I remember Captain Arthur Gardner (and, of course, the Royal Hotel).

Your lower photograph of Priestpopple was indeed taken at the same time (same parked cars and the petrol tanker delivering to George and Jobling's garage).

I was also (from about 1960) a regular (though infrequent) customer of the Royal off-licence and remember the lady who was, presumably, your mother. I was also an occasional customer of the hotel bar (not a regular).

I realise that this thread is intended to be devoted to developments, (rather than nostalgia) and I follow 'developments' with interest - not the least being the bus station saga which seems to get shelved whenever it gets 'too difficult'. This has gone on for as long as I can remember.




Our various 'Developments' threads, for a particular area, while primarily concerned with new developments, can also be used for posts about nostagia/history ("how we got to where we are today") about that particular area.

No problem with that!

However, we do have a number of 'specifically historical' threads that you can use, if you wish.

These are listed under "T" for Threads, on our ALPHABETICAL FORUM INDEX THREAD, here . . .

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1159925

The main two threads of a "general historical" nature (included within the above list) are . . .

1 - Remembering HISTORIC NEWCASTLE - Old Photos, Maps, even Stories . . .
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=982536

2 - HISTORY and OLD PHOTOS of the North East (Outside the Newcastle Boundary)
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=987417

While above thread No. 1 is the busiest thread, I would suggest that historical posts about Hexham (though they can also go onto the 'Tyne Valley Developments Thread') would best go onto thread No. 2.

I, and others I'm sure, will respond about the 'current issues' you mention, in due course.

Boost for Hexham Abbey's £3m appeal
by Paul Tully, The Journal, December 21st 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2010/4/7/hexham-abbey-924927267.jpg

HEXHAM Abbey’s £3m development appeal has received a major boost as it closes in on its target. The internationally-renowned Wolfson Foundation has approved a grant of £50,000 towards the planned new heritage and visitor centre and new community facilities.

It takes the appeal to within £125,000 of its final target ahead of the March 2012 deadline.

The £50,000 grant is the largest single donation to the abbey project fund since it launched a public appeal last March for the final £400,000 towards the £3m figure.

The London-based Wolfson Foundation, which has an endowment in excess of £700m, makes awards through a stringent review process involving leading experts and advisory panels. It was established in 1955 by Sir Isaac Wolfson, chairman of Great Universal Stores, and is run in the family name.

Simon Fourmy, the Foundation’s director of grants, told The Journal: “There were a couple of different aspects of the Hexham Abbey project which caught our attention. “One, clearly, is the significance of the building itself, which is one of the most significant Anglo-Saxon structures in the North East, if not the country.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/12/21/major-boost-for-hexham-abbey-s-3m-appeal-61634-29988687/#ixzz1hFZshn4g

I was in Hexham with my girlfriend a little while ago & the traffic and parking around the market square was a nightmare and made it feel far less an attractive town than it actually is. If there was anyway of moving the parking out of the immediate centre and pedestrianising it, it would make for a much more attractive centre.

There has been no traffic warden for Hexham (or other Tyne Valley towns that were covered by Tynedale) since last April, and there will be none until next April, as responsibility passes from the Police to Northumberland County Council.
It was supposed to happen last April, but NCC failed to apply for the necessary authority and the existing wardens left or retired.

The ideal (IMO) would be short term waiting in the existing town centre spaces (but this requires 'policing') and lower cost long-term off-street parking, but, unfortunately there is a shortage of all-day parking as workers travel into the town from surrounding settlements.

The proposal to relocate the bus station to the current Loosing Hill car park will reduce the number of spaces available for visitors. Many seek to park here rather than pay the expensive charges at the Hospital (though if the Hospital was too cheap then commuters would park there).

Both Tesco and Aldi have introduced limits (with £60 'fines' for those overstaying as monitored by ANPR cameras) as have Beales (was Robbs).

If sanctions continue to be applied to motorists then would-be shoppers will avoid the town centre, and footfall will continue to reduce.

An update in the Courant this weekend (can't find the article online, sorry). Seemingly the Co-op successfully objected to the environmental impact assessment and the developers got sent away to fix it. On the day before the planning decision was due.

The nature of these objections being a) that the non-technical summary was inadequate b) that alternatives were not given proper consideration and c) there was no consideration of "cumulative impact of development".

The status is now that the revised EIA is still being worked on. Once this has been resubmitted there will have to be a new round of consultation before any decision is taken.

The Coop have abandoned Hexham, but they seem to be defending their situation in Prudhoe by objecting to a possible Sainsbury(?) store.

This week's Hexham Courant has an article suggesting that Hexham Bus Station is to be abandoned in favour of a stop in a lay-by to be constructed on Priestpopple (where the current car-parking spaces are located).
To facilitate buses turning around (to return eastwards) a traffic roundabout is proposed at the top of Battle Hill / Beaumont Street by moving Benson's monument and the Park gates.

The reasons being quoted include lack of money . . .

Monument may be moved to make way for buses
By Brian Tilley, Hexham Courant, Monday, 16 January 2012

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/797164100.jpg

BOER War hero Col George Benson could be on the march again.

For the statue to the great man, which has stood at the top of Hexham’s Beaumont Street for more than a century, may have to be moved – to accommodate a new roundabout.

A price tag of between £1 million and £1.5 million means that Northumberland County Council cannot afford to press ahead with its plans to move Hexham Bus Station to Loosing Hill, Coun. Terry Robson told Monday’s meeting of Hexham Town Council.

The new thinking is that instead of a full scale bus station, the town will be served by a bus lay-by, located near the Nicholson Portnell solicitors’ offices, in Priestpopple.

A consequence of that would be that Benson’s Monument would have to be moved from the plinth it has occupied since 1904.

The Benson’s Gates and extended footpath on the western side of Beaumont Street would also have to go, to allow a roundabout to be created so buses could turn round.

www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/monument-may-be-moved-to-make-way-for-buses-1.915241

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Homebase DIY store set to be opened in Hexham
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 21st 2012


HEXHAM is set for a major trade boost as DIY giant Homebase is poised to set up shop as part of a new development in the town and several other leading names have thrown their hat into the ring for the multi-million pound development at Hexham railway station’s disused goods yard.

Fashion shop Next and bike and car accessories chain Halfords are said to have expressed an interest, and the site is also set to become home to the regional dramatics group, Theatre Sans Frontieres.

However, it is the planned 20,000sqft Homebase unit, incorporating a DIY store and a garden centre, that will be the most significant arrival. If all goes according to plan, the site will be up-and-running by spring 2013.

The scheme is being put in place by Barnard Castle-based Rokeby Developments and Rokeby director Adrian Goodall said yesterday: “We hope this will attract people to Hexham rather than them having to go miles away for what they want.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/01/21/homebase-diy-store-set-to-be-opened-in-hexham-61634-30168657/#ixzz1k5VD15Sg

DIY items are available (from several builders' merchants - Matthew Charlton/Jewson, Doves and MKM) but the non-trade prices are, IMO, excessive.

I doubt, though, whether Hexham (and the surrounding settlements) has the potential to support a new-build Homebase. I suppose it depends how many are making the trip to B&Q Newcastle.

Halfords might take business from the motor factors (Bowmans, Taylors and TMS).

We'll have to see whether the various retailers do their research (and sums) right.

Hexham has also gone without a major garden centre since Tynedale Park – on the site of the current Tesco 24-hour superstore – closed in January 2005.
There's Down to Earth (Tyne Mills) and Harlings (Bridge End).
Tynedale Park drew-in crowds from afar at weekends - will Homebase will do the same I wonder?


The car park will be built on the north side of the station.
? this would be Tyne Mills (where Carrs Agricultural are).
There is a tranche of land (used to be a railway siding), see here:-

http://wikimapia.org/#lat=54.9733773&lon=-2.0938396&z=17&l=0&m=h

but access would be over the railway (for pedestrians).

Is there existing vehicular access from Tyne Mills (perhaps near the 'Tynedale' (as was) Council Depot)?

Edited to add:-
There is 'strip' access from behind the Hi-Q tyre depot, here:-
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=tyne+mills,+hexham&hl=en&ll=54.974092,-2.09444&spn=0.002888,0.009238&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=12.188179,37.836914&vpsrc=6&hq=tyne+mills,&hnear=Hexham,+Northumberland,+United+Kingdom&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=54.974411,-2.094553&panoid=PpraQDba6P90TQSKA8mxlw&cbp=12,303.38,,1,6.48

See here:- http://wikimapia.org/#lat=54.9744641&lon=-2.0948052&z=19&l=0&m=h


.

'
In continuation of numerous earlier posts on this thread about HEXHAM BUS STATION . . .

Hexham Bus Station - 1,865 sign petition to save it
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 1st 2012

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/bus-234581414.jpg

ALMOST 2,000 people have signed a petition to keep a town’s bus station where it is ahead of a county council debate this afternoon. Now the proposals to move Hexham Bus Station to an edge-of-town site could be dropped by the county’s planners.

A total of 1,865 people signed the petition set up by Anne Pickering and Aileen Henricks and the force of opinion will be heard today at County Hall in Morpeth when the full Northumberland County Council debates the bus station’s future ahead of a decision scheduled to be taken by the executive on March 5.

Miss Pickering, of Oakwood, Hexham, who will address the council, said yesterday: “The bus station is in the centre of the town and it is used by a tremendous number of people. With the price of petrol so high, it is important that people should have the best bus service possible."

“The number of people who have signed the petition demonstrates the strength of feeling there is in the town on this matter. The central bus station on Priestpopple has been allowed to deteriorate badly and it is acknowledged by all sides that something needs to be done urgently."

Last year, it was proposed to relocate the station to Loosing Hill, on the eastern edge of the town centre opposite Hexham General Hospital. The county council-owned station on Priestpopple would then have been vacated for redevelopment, including a link to the Marks & Spencer store 200 yards away.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/02/01/hexham-bus-station-to-stay-put-after-1-865-sign-petition-61634-30239046/#ixzz1l94Om5V0

.
At the moment I am writing a "Family History" and am currently writing about the years 1952 to 1959, when my father and mother both worked at the Royal Hotel, as was discussed earlier on in this thread (see 'Post 82').

So my head is currently FULL of what this hotel was like in the 1950s, from my fathers detailed diaries.

As part of this work, we went over to Hexham on Tuesday of this week to have a look at the Royal Hotel, and compared to how it was described as being in the 1950s, it appeared very 'run down' indeed. Now this . . .


Fire at the Royal Hotel Hexham is probed by police
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 3rd 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/feb2012/7/8/royal-hotel-hexham-hexham-hotel-image-2-112737804.jpg

POLICE were last night investigating a suspicious fire at a historic Northumberland hotel. Firefighters were called out at 3.30am yesterday after the blaze broke out inside the Royal Hotel in Hexham town centre.

The interior of the Grade II-listed former coaching inn on Priestpopple was slightly damaged but the classical exterior, topped by a famous golden dome, escaped unharmed. No one is reported to have been injured in the fire and it is believed no guests were staying at the hotel.

Yesterday, the 192-year-old building, which incorporates a Thai/Indian restaurant, was cordoned off and closed to the public, although restaurant advertising boards were still displayed on the pavement outside.

A single police car stood guard, blocking public access through the archway to the hotel’s rear courtyard and car park.

The fire comes just three weeks after three Bangladeshi men were arrested at the hotel as part of a regional investigation by the UK Border Agency into illegal immigration.

The troubled hotel, which dates back to 1820, was taken over by new owners early in 2008 and the Royal Orchid Thai restaurant was opened in a front suite. Bar Havana, to the rear of the hotel, was relaunched and the 10-roomed, two-star hotel was destined to be “restored to its former glory”.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/02/03/fire-at-the-royal-hotel-hexham-is-probed-by-police-61634-30257068/#ixzz1lJWSoopD

The below is 'copied over' to here, from the OLD ADVERTS thread . . .


Hexham Courant, Friday August 6th 1948.


http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0001.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0004.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0005.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0006.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0007.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0009.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0003.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0010.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0012.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0002.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0013.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0014.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0017.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0016.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/HexhamCourantAdverts-intheissuedatedFriAug6th1948_0015.jpg

.
we went over to Hexham on Tuesday of this week to have a look at the Royal Hotel,

POLICE were last night investigating a suspicious fire[/URL]
No connection, I assume?

it is believed no guests were staying at the hotel.

the 10-roomed, two-star hotel was destined to be “restored to its former glory”.

[url]http://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowUserReviews-g186351-d209900-r39236203-Hexham_Royal-Hexham_Northumberland_England.html (http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/02/03/fire-at-the-royal-hotel-hexham-is-probed-by-police-61634-30257068/#ixzz1lJWSoopD)

No connection, I assume?


:)

Ha ha, no, but the place does need a lot doing to it to get it back to the standard it used to be at, and perhaps even more so to get it fully modernised.

I hope it does not suffer from (what is called on other threads on the forum) a "MQF", which I suppose (on this thread) would be either a "MHF" or an "MTVF" . . .

Some interesting memories from those adverts!

Monument may be moved to make way for buses
By Brian Tilley, Hexham Courant, Monday, 16 January 2012

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/797164100.jpg

BOER War hero Col George Benson could be on the march again.

For the statue to the great man, which has stood at the top of Hexham’s Beaumont Street for more than a century, may have to be moved – to accommodate a new roundabout.

The new thinking is that instead of a full scale bus station, the town will be served by a bus lay-by, located near the Nicholson Portnell solicitors’ offices, in Priestpopple. A consequence of that would be that Benson’s Monument would have to be moved from the plinth it has occupied since 1904.

www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/monument-may-be-moved-to-make-way-for-buses-1.915241
.



I really do not think the monument should be moved, it is an important feature of Hexham, in the place where it is, and has been all my life.

Here is a photo of it, that I recently found, taken by my father in August 1930 . . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/GeorgeBensonMonument-HexhamAugust1930_0001.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/GeorgeBensonMonument-HexhamAugust1930_0002.jpg

Hexham Courant is, today, reporting that the developer chosen for Hexham Bus Station has withdrawn.

This leaves the situation in doubt as to what will now become of the project.

I really do not think the monument should be moved, it is an important feature of Hexham, in the place where it is, and has been all my life.

Here is a photo of it, that I recently found, taken by my father in August 1930 . . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/GeorgeBensonMonument-HexhamAugust1930_0001.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/GeorgeBensonMonument-HexhamAugust1930_0002.jpg

NH did your dad take any other interesting historical pics of Hexham from his time there? Would love to see them if so.

You might also be interested to know that there is currently a constantly looping selection of old films being shown in the Queen's Hall about Hexham, most of them from the 1950/60s, in the gallery upstairs.

F

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/hexham-bus-station-switch-is-abandoned-1.928999

NH did your dad take any other interesting historical pics of Hexham from his time there? Would love to see them if so.

You might also be interested to know that there is currently a constantly looping selection of old films being shown in the Queen's Hall about Hexham, most of them from the 1950/60s, in the gallery upstairs.

F


My Dad took a few, but only a very few, photos around Hexham in 1930, before he joined the Army (Royal Corps of Signals) and travelled the world with them until 1945.

So, he wasn't around Hexham much after 1930, until returning to live there in the early 1950s.

Apart from the one you have seen, I have been able to find a few more small prints of his (all from 1930, I think) from the Hexham of that era, which I have scanned in . . .

Hexham Abbey . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/23140040.jpg


The building that became (until recently) Tyndale Council Offices . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/23140041.jpg


Dene Cottage, opposite where the old General Hospital was. We had family living in that house, which is still there today, until the 1930s . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/1930August1930DeneCottageHexham-1stPhotofound.jpg


No. 1 St Cuthberts Terrace (at junction with Battle Hill) where relatives lived in 1930 (The back of the print shown also) . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/1930AuntMaggiesHousePhoto.jpg
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/1930AuntMaggiesHouseBackofphoto.jpg


While doing some Family History research recently, I found the location of the above photo, and took a photo of it today. That is my hand there, holding the print from 1930 into shot!! . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/16Jan20091StCuthbertsTceHexham-AuntMaggiesin19300013.jpg


So, sorry, not very much in my Dad's collection about "1930s Hexham", I'm afraid!

.

In today's Hexham Courant, the chairman of the Planning Committee is mooting the idea that 'lay-bys' on Priestpopple are the way forward for the impasse of the bus station . . .

£28,000 Corbridge flood defence work starts
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 6th 2012


BURROWING rabbits have weakened flood defences of a village badly hit by floods seven years ago – landing authorities with a bill for nearly £30,000.

The banks of the River Tyne at Corbridge, Northumberland, have slumped due to rabbits and human footfall, now the Environment Agency has launched a three-week, £28,000 repair job on the embankment at The Stanners.

The ruinous rabbits haven’t hit the parts that the floods breached in January 2005, flooding dozens of houses and businesses that took villagers months to clean up. There is no immediate risk of new floods, although the 350-metre stretch under repair from yesterday has been left unstable.

The flood bank protects 75 properties including the County Show Ground, Tynedale Park Rugby Club, Corbridge Cricket Club and access to the village railway station. The weakened stretch, which includes re-building an old embedded stone wall, borders the cricket and rugby clubs.

Alan Cadas, Environment Agency operations delivery manager, said: “This is not the same as the two areas that were responsible for the 2005 floods. This is a little further along the river, but is part of an ongoing programme of works that has followed the 2005 floods.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/06/28-000-corbridge-flood-defence-work-starts-61634-30467250/#ixzz1oKNNiKoD

New Hexham fire station plan hangs on grant bid
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 7th 2012


HOPES of a new Fire Station in a Northumberland market town could depend on winning a slice of Government capital grant in 2013. The need for the new fire station in Hexham is becoming increasingly urgent, as the current station is not fit for modern facilities.

Since the coalition government withdrew funding in 2010, the £3.5m project has been stalled, and Northumberland County Council does not have the money at this stage to help. It could come down to Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service bidding successfully for a slice of a £70m central government Fire Capital Grant in the next financial year.

Project Manager Rob Clow said: “We are waiting for the criteria of how they are going to distribute the £70m. We are also waiting to see whether the county council makes it one of their main priorities. We are pushing for both and it might be a mix-and-match – a bit of each. But we are very hopeful that it will be started in two years, and also very hopeful that it will be built in three years.”

The site for the new station, at a former car showroom on West Road, Hexham, has been bought and cleared in readiness, but despite outline planning approval being given in 2009, and a Private Finance Initiative being accepted a year before that, the plans are frozen in time.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/07/new-hexham-fire-station-plan-hangs-on-grant-bid-61634-30474420/#ixzz1oQOU895j

West Orchard House in Hexham to get makeover
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 8th 2012


A HISTORIC century-old house which has stood empty for four years is set for a bright new future. West Orchard House, an Edwardian town house in the west end of Hexham, will get a full-scale makeover after being bought by a leading chartered accountancy company for its new business HQ. Patricia J Arnold & Co Ltd, which currently has 18 staff at Black House on Dipton Mill Road on the southern fringes of the town, plans to move into West Orchard House by early next year.

The three-storey house, which stands in a conservation area on Allendale Road at a prime entrance to the town, used to act as the town’s fire then ambulance station, as well as a more recent Red Cross day care centre. It was gifted to the town in the mid-19th Century but has stood unused since 2008.

Patricia J Arnold Ltd acquired the site a year ago and is now submitting a detailed planning application. Company owner Patricia Arnold says the refurbishment will save a vital part of Hexham’s heritage and “greatly enhance” the western gateway to the town.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/08/new-life-for-historic-hexham-house-61634-30487565/#ixzz1oW2lxp00

Hexham birdfeed ban considered to stop pigeons
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 10th 2012


A BIRD feed ban is being considered in a bid to stop pigeons harming a town centre’s appearance. Pigeon droppings are a mounting problem in Hexham, Northumberland, and with the tourist season about to start up, it is feared visitors may be put off coming back unless something is done.

Flocks of pigeons have descended on the scenic town centre recently, especially near the famous abbey and market place shops. Former Mayor Terry Robson said the area was becoming “an absolute midden” – and urgent measures were required to clean it up. A Trafalgar Square-style ban on feeding the pigeons is also a possibility.

“They are breeding, and the problem keeps on growing,” said Coun Robson. “If there is no food for them, it might alleviate the problem. “At the abbey, the seats in front are having to be taken away and cleaned. And they will be put back further away from the building. A lot of shopkeepers in the town are tearing their hair out trying to keep their areas clean.

“If you were a tourist, would you come back again? It’s a deterrent, and something has to be done.” Hexham Town Council has little budget to cover the pigeon problem and shopkeepers and property owners are being urged to do their bit in the clean-up operation – for their own benefit.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/10/hexham-birdfeed-ban-considered-to-stop-pigeons-61634-30499164/#ixzz1ohoZpKKu

Hexham nightclub Dontinos to reopen as sports bar
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 10th 2012


A POPULAR Northumberland nightclub venue is set to re-open this month after being closed since last autumn.

Tynedale businessman Shaun Scandle has submitted an application to relaunch the former Dontinos nightclub in Hexham as a late-night sports bar. If all goes to plan, it will reopen as Studio Sports Bar on March 28.

Mr Scandle currently owns Bar Havana, at the rear of the closure-hit Royal Hotel on the opposite side of Hexham’s main street, Priestpopple and he said: “If the licence is granted, we will move everything across the road on the night of March 27 and be open for business on March 28.” Under the name Studio Sports Bar, the premises would operate until 2am six nights a week.

Police have opposed a bid to open until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights, and Mr Scandle said: “Although that is what I wanted, the important thing is to get the sports bar open. “I will have to say yes to 2am - I don’t want to lose time with any objection to that.”

Although the nightclub became a popular and integral part of Hexham life, it struggled in recent years.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/10/hexham-nightclub-dontinos-to-reopen-as-sports-bar-61634-30500785/#ixzz1ohpJ5AyG

I well remember when the fire station (and the Red Cross ambulance) were based at West Orchard House - though I never knew that that was its name.

In the 1940s and 1950s the part-time fire crew were called out by sounding the Wartime siren that is on the roof of what was the Police Station next to the Abbey (the building used until recently as a courthouse).

One fireman worked as a self-employed window-cleaner and when the siren sounded he could often be seen pedalling furiously towards the Allendale Road to intercept the appliance and he would abandon his cycle wherever he met it.
I only knew him as 'Amby'.

After the Tyne Mills fire station was built the Allendale Road premises were used to house the appliance overnight where it could be retrieved by the part-time crew when needed. This was later moved to the Drill Hall in Temperley Place until the fire crew became full-time round the clock (which might have been influenced by the regular fires at Egger . . . ).

Storm of protest over Hexham Constituency Boundary Changes
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 15th 2012


MORE than 900 objections have been lodged with the Boundary Commission over plans to alter the face of a Northumberland constituency. Under controversial current proposals, Hexham would lose Ponteland East to the Berwick seat and Haltwhistle and South Tynedale to a newly-formed Consett and Barnard Castle seat.

However, the plans have raised a storm of protest and 950 representations to the Commission. All three main political parties have united in their condemnation, with the 950 submissions over Hexham the equal of all the other 28 North East constituencies put together

In addition, 21 parish councils have objected to the plans for Tynedale, with only Prudhoe Town Council giving support to the Boundary Commission.

The Conservative group drew up counter-proposals and the Tories are claiming the support of the Liberal and Labour groups.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/15/storm-of-protest-over-hexham-boundary-changes-61634-30543073/#ixzz1pAqVrJzz

Hexham National Trust shop to close this summer
The Journal, March 26th 2012


THE National Trust shop in Hexham Town Centre will close this summer under cost-cutting moves.

The shop has been a fixture on Market Street for many years.

It is said to be no longer viable and will shut down when the current lease runs out in June.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/northumberland-sites/hexham-northumberland/hexham-news/2012/03/26/hexham-national-trust-shop-to-close-this-summer-61634-30626150/#ixzz1qDjbLtXL

Hexham Hydro meeting “very positive” says MP
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 30th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/dec2011/5/9/featured-hexham-hydro-683886021.jpg
Gillian Orrell, Transition Tynedale volunteer campaigning for the Hexham River Hydro scheme

A MEETING between project leaders and anglers to debate concerns over the planned Hexham Hydro scheme has been described as “very positive” by the region’s MP.

Conservative Guy Opperman, who chaired the debate in Hexham, said: “No decisions were taken, but a lot of very constructive talking and discussion took place.”

A new feasibility study into the £800,000 scheme, which would generate power for 150 homes for 40 years, is due shortly.

Angling groups are worried at the impact the scheme could have on Tyne fish stocks.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/03/30/hexham-hydro-meeting-very-positive-says-mp-61634-30655841/#ixzz1qg4zKOdq

Northumberland Roman museum reopens after £1m revamp

A Roman museum in Northumberland has reopened after a £1m revamp.

English Heritage spent about six months upgrading Housesteads Roman Fort in Hexham, creating a new audio visual exhibition on its history.

Access to the museum for disabled visitors has also been improved, along with a refurbishment of the museum shop.

Read more:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-17571476

My Dad took a few, but only a very few, photos around Hexham in 1930, before he joined the Army (Royal Corps of Signals) and travelled the world with them until 1945.

So, he wasn't around Hexham much after 1930, until returning to live there in the early 1950s.

Apart from the one you have seen, I have been able to find a few more small prints of his (all from 1930, I think) from the Hexham of that era, which I have scanned in . . .

Hexham Abbey . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/23140040.jpg


The building that became (until recently) Tyndale Council Offices . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/23140041.jpg


Dene Cottage, opposite where the old General Hospital was. We had family living in that house, which is still there today, until the 1930s . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/1930August1930DeneCottageHexham-1stPhotofound.jpg


No. 1 St Cuthberts Terrace (at junction with Battle Hill) where relatives lived in 1930 (The back of the print shown also) . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/1930AuntMaggiesHousePhoto.jpg
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/1930AuntMaggiesHouseBackofphoto.jpg


While doing some Family History research recently, I found the location of the above photo, and took a photo of it today. That is my hand there, holding the print from 1930 into shot!! . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/16Jan20091StCuthbertsTceHexham-AuntMaggiesin19300013.jpg


So, sorry, not very much in my Dad's collection about "1930s Hexham", I'm afraid!

.

Great stuff NH particularly the Abbey pic showing the fence and wall and tiny pavement that is now all a large paved over area. I remember when there was grass in front of the East end of the Abbey, not sure why they thought it was a good idea to get rid of a grassed area.

I grew up just next to Cuthbert Terrace ;-)

F

Hexham wood panel maker Egger
invests £20m in Chipboard Plant.
by Iain Laing, The Journal, April 5th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nebusiness/apr2012/1/6/egger-uk-739789863.jpg

WOOD PANEL maker Egger UK is making a £20m investment to improve production in the Hexham factory it says is now the most advanced chipboard plant in Europe. The Norwegian company says there will be no new jobs at the site, which already employs 520 people, but that the new lamination and impregnation equipment will make it more competitive.

The business is trying to grow in a sector which has been hit by a 55% rise in wood prices in the last five years and the decline in the housebuilding and furniture industries. The new machinery will make the plant more efficient in turning out its range of laminates for furniture in more than 600 finishes.

The plant is now Northumberland’s biggest private sector employer after the closure of the Alcan’s aluminium smelter in Lynemouth and the company says it indirectly supports 1,500 jobs in the county in areas such as forestry and sawmilling. A company spokesman said: “Our newest lamination and impregnation lines will ensure our products continue to meet the exacting quality standards increasingly demanded by the furniture sector.

“This equipment will help us continue to add value to our standard chipboard by using printed decorative papers, such as walnut, oak and maple, that enable our customers to make the kitchens and furniture of tomorrow.” It is the latest in a series of investments at the Hexham site it bought in 1984 from Weyroc, including £120m expansion in 2007, the year which also saw it plant 13,500 trees in the area.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2012/04/05/hexham-panel-maker-egger-invests-20m-in-production-51140-30696833/

Hexham building to go under hammer in London
by Paul Tully, The Journal, April 10th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/apr2012/0/8/the-old-grammar-school-in-hexham-107023117.jpg

ONE of the four ‘crown jewel’ buildings in Hexham which have stood unsold for 18 months is to be put up for auction in London. The £1m-valued Old Grammar School will go under the hammer at Claridge’s on May 14 after failing to sell on the open market since October 2010.

Northumberland County Council has tried to raise a combined £4m through the sale of the Old Grammar School as well as Prospect House, Hexham House and the Old Swimming Pool, but despite a number of inquiries and secret bids, all four remain unsold.

Now the council has put the elegant Grade II-listed Old Grammar School, which dates back several hundred years to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, in the hands of London property auctioneers Lambert Smith Hampton. An “appropriate” reserve price will be put on the building at Hallgate, said to have been founded by Royal Charter in 1599.

The detached, two-storey building, which boast a private 14-space car park, currently houses the west area planning department of the county council.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/04/10/hexham-building-to-go-under-hammer-in-london-61634-30725839/#ixzz1rcdIVu17

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Referring-back to my earlier post about the buildings adjacent to Hexham Bus Station, the proprietor of Porteous' Electrical shop passed away last week, aged 92:-
http://www.myfamilyannouncements.co.uk/hexhamcourant/view/417207/porteous-osman-ossie

I spent half an hour sitting in the Bus Station today whilst waiting for a bus. I know that the premises 'behind' the current Amigos kebab shop were occupied by Taylor's Tyre Shop (his son Richard - who I still see around - was at my school, though in a different year), but I cannot recall what business occupied the current Amigo's kebab shop premises in the 1950s - can anyone help?

Here is a view of the building that I mean:-
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=priestpopple&hl=en&ll=54.970181,-2.099215&spn=0.002999,0.008529&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=12.657515,34.936523&t=h&hnear=Priestpopple,+Hexham+NE46,+United+Kingdom&layer=c&cbll=54.970165,-2.099484&panoid=WfgfIx5Pt2buY-73J1hRnA&cbp=12,132.83,,1,3.23&z=17

Hexham Abbey hits public appeal target
by Paul Tully, The Journal, April 20th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/sep2010/4/7/hexham-abbey-924927267.jpg

THE £400,000 public appeal target to develop one of the North East’s most famous religious buildings has been reached. Hexham Abbey fundraisers have realised their ambition to raise £3m overall for the redevelopment of its medieval buildings.

The 7th century abbey secured Lottery funding and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds before launching the public appeal in March last year. Now, after a year and two weeks, the final £40,000 piece of the jigsaw has come from the J Paul Getty Jnr charitable trust. It could be one of the 26-year-old Getty Trust’s last donations as it is winding down and is expected to close to new applications by the end of 2012.

The Rector of Hexham, Canon Graham Usher, welcomed the news yesterday after Northumberland’s west area planning committee unanimously approved the plans to convert former monastic workshops and magistrates courts to a state-of-the-art heritage and visitor centre with community facilities.

Canon Usher told councillors in Hexham: “There has been massive public support. We want to provide a range of functions and facilities which makes it economically viable.” The abbey is now preparing further applications to grant-making trusts in its bid to include the restoration of the former magistrates’ courts in its redevelopment project.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/04/20/hexham-abbey-hits-public-appeal-target-61634-30799172/#ixzz1sZEfR6LU

Hexham Old Grammar School gets £450,000 auction reserve
by Paul Tully, The Journal, May 8th 2012


A LANDMARK public building, once valued at £1m, could sell for less than half that when it goes up for auction next week. The Old Grammar School in Hexham, Northumberland, is on the catalogue for the May 14 auction of Lambert Smith Hampton at Claridge’s. The distinctive Grade II-listed building has been given a reserve price of £450,000, although the bidding could go higher than that figure.

Northumberland County Council has failed to sell any of the four prize town-centre buildings – also including Prospect House, Hexham House and the Old Swimming Pool – since putting them on the open market in October 2010, but Hexham Lib Dem councillor Derek Kennedy said: “If the London auction is successful, it could pave the way for the other three to also go to auction. It would certainly be an option, though the others are still on the market."

Northumberland County Council hoped to raise a total of around £4m from the four property sales, but has been unable to attract a suitable buyer for any of them, despite drawing in 11 separate bids under the formal tender process, by which secret, sealed offers are made. Coun Kennedy defended the £450,000 reserve price put on the Old Grammar School, which is lower than many estimates of its value. He said: “That is the bare minimum figure – hopefully, we will get more than that. Anybody who wants to develop it has got to have a lot of work done – and have a lot of money to do it.”

In May last year, outgoing Hexham Mayor Coun Terry Robson urged the sale of the four properties for “the best reasonable offer” to help stimulate the local economy.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/05/08/hexham-old-grammar-school-gets-450-000-auction-reserve-61634-30919180/#ixzz1uGRwSWgB

Town ‘jewel’ is sold off for £430,000
by Paul Tully, The Journal, May 15th 2012

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/the-old-grammar-school-in-hexham-107023117.jpg

ONE OF Hexham’s ‘Crown Jewel’ buildings was sold at auction yesterday for just under half a million pounds. The Old Grammar School on Hallgate fetched its reserve price of £430,000 in the London sale. Auctioneers Lambert Smith Hampton said the 16th Century building was sold to “a private individual” – though no further details of the buyer were being revealed last night.

The elegant white-fronted building, which currently houses Northumberland County Council’s west area planning officials, had been on the open market for 19 months without selling. Three other Hexham properties – Prospect House, Hexham House and the Old Swimming Pool – were also put on the market as the county council sought to cash in on its assets, now the other three properties could also go under the hammer.

Frank Jordan, Head of Commercial and Property Services at Northumberland County Council, said: “We were pleased to get what we set as the reserve price for the property. This is the first time we’ve done this and while we may consider doing it again, there is no guarantee we’ll do this for other properties in the area.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/05/15/town-jewel-is-sold-off-for-430-000-61634-30968627/#ixzz1uvMAyBCy

Prudhoe Town Centre plans are
up for a final planning decision
by Paul Tully, The Journal, June 15th 2012


PROTESTERS are gearing up for a last bid to block controversial plans for a Northumberland Town Centre. The £28m plans which will change the face of Prudhoe are finally due before planners for a decision on Wednesday. Five years after the first proposals were submitted by the Duke of Northumberland’s estate office, and eight months after a planning committee meeting was called off at the last minute, the full application will go before the county’s west area planning committee in Hexham.

With objectors from Prudhoe likely to travel along the Tyne Valley in force, the committee meeting has been switched from its normal sedate venue at Prospect House planning HQ to the large-capacity function room at Hexham Auction Mart. Businesses and residents in Prudhoe are unhappy at the wide-ranging town centre plans for retail, housing, office and supermarket development.

Among other issues, they claim the sewerage network is insufficient to cope with the extra demands placed by 150 new properties, and protection from traffic for residents is not good enough. John Robson. of the Take Pride in Prudhoe action group, said: “There are major unresolved issues like pollution, conditions, environmental impact and even light pollution from a three-storey car park.

“I just hope that it gets an honest hearing and the planning committee make a well-informed decision."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/06/15/prudhoe-town-plans-up-for-final-planning-decision-61634-31187379/#ixzz1xqheTqwz

Prudhoe town plans given the green light
by Paul Tully, The Journal, June 21st 2012


THE DUKE of Northumberland's controversial £28m redevelopment of Prudhoe Town Centre was finally given the go-ahead last night – after a five-year planning battle. Northumberland County Council’s West Area Planning Committee gave unanimous approval for the plans which will revolutionise the face of the town. New retail, housing, office and supermarket developments will bring 400 jobs to the town – but objectors are unhappy at the impact it will have on existing homes and shops.

The first proposals from Northumberland Estates to redevelop Prudhoe town centre were put forward in 2007. Numerous objections were lodged from individuals and businesses and the town’s Co-op challenged and stalled the plans in a High Court case in 2009, but amended plans were re-submitted by the Duke’s Northumberland Estates office and last night, before dozens of onlookers at a specially-convened meeting at Hexham Auction Mart, the committee decided the future of Prudhoe would be significantly enhanced by the scheme and voted in favour.

Coun Bill Garrett, a lifelong resident, said: “I feel as well qualified as anyone else to speak on issues regarding Prudhoe, and what we have not got in Prudhoe is a town centre where people want to come and do their shopping. This is a one-off opportunity. In the last 20 or 30 years we have seen a decline because people cannot buy what they want here. But we will get 17 extra shops and a modern facility.”


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/06/21/prudhoe-town-plans-given-the-green-light-61634-31228263/#ixzz1yPtwHAm0

Hexham future development up for discussion at event
The Journal, June 23rd 2012


PEOPLE living in Hexham and the surrounding area are being asked to give their views on how the town should be developed in the future. An event called "Your Town Your Vision" will be held in Hexham’s Queen’s Hall tomorrow to give people the opportunity to contribute to a plan for the area’s future.

The event follows a decision last year by Hexham Town Council to draw up a new town plan. The process began with a launch event in November where initial views of residents were received on life in Hexham, and people from the town were encouraged to volunteer to be part of a steering group to take the debate forward. A group of residents, town councillors and representatives of several organisations in the town has been looking at important aspects of Hexham life such as transport, the built environment, the economy and arts and leisure.

Coun Judy Lloyd, chair of the town plan steering group chair, said: “For meaningful plans to be developed we need to know what the people of Hexham actually want Hexham to become. As part of the process we will be talking to the numerous groups and associations which flourish in Hexham but we also want to involve as many individual residents as possible, which is why we have organised this event at the Queens Hall on June 24.”

People will be asked what they want Hexham to be like in the next decade and to give their views about what is good about the town and what should be changed.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/06/23/hexham-future-development-up-for-discussion-at-event-61634-31243546/#ixzz1ycLlOHjL

^^

Unfortunately, I don't live in Hexham now and I can't get over there tomorrow (24th June).

Is anyone on this forum going, I wonder?

Turbine plans near Hadrian's Wall at Heddon and Hexham
by Brian Daniel, The Journal, June 25th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2012/1/9/the-site-close-hadrian-s-wall-949487648.jpg
The Heddon site close to Hadrian's Wall

CONTROVERSIAL plans to put a turbine close to a world heritage site are among five wind schemes set to be given the green light in Northumberland.
The bid for a turbine close to Hadrian’s Wall goes before Northumberland County Council next week, alongside four other wind projects, all of which are being recommended for approval.

One objector to the scheme close to the Roman Wall last night voiced his disappointment that the various projects all looked set to go ahead, claiming Northumberland is “carrying the brunt” of turbine development. The application is for a 27m turbine at Houghton North Farm at Heddon-on-the-Wall, 450m from the world heritage site, on the edge of its buffer zone and close to the wall’s national trail.

A total of 13 residents have objected as has Heddon-on-the-Wall Parish Council, although there have been 10 letters of support. Concerns have been raised not only over the impact on Hadrian’s Wall but also development of greenbelt, i mpact on neighbouring properties and on wildlife, and the scale of the turbine. Ian Clayton, 67, of Bluebell Cottages, said: “It is obviously fairly close to the Roman Wall, we get a lot of visitors here and it is going to be clearly seen from certain areas. There is wall evident in Heddon itself, of course.”

However, members of the council’s planning and environment committee are being advised to give planning permission at their meeting next Tuesday. Also recommended for approval at the same meeting is a bid for a turbine at Hexham Racecourse, which is within the green belt.


Read More http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/06/25/turbine-plans-near-hadrian-s-wall-heritage-site-61634-31255185/#ixzz1yn6UGaLP

Public to see plans for old rail yard in Hexham
by Iain Laing, The Journal, July 4th 2012


ROKEBY Developments’ bid to bring new life to a disused goods yard in Hexham are being opened to public scrutiny. The Barnard Castle-based developer is working with Network Rail to transform the 3.2 acre site in the heart of the town to a modern retail facility and the detailed plans will be revealed to the public at an event today at the Wentworth Leisure Centre in Hexham, to gauge their opinions.

Stuart Kirkwood, head of development at Network Rail said: “This is a significant investment for Hexham, and we are very pleased to have joined forces with a local developer to make better use of railway land for the local community. “We hope this open event will give people a chance to comment on our plans ahead of the formal planning application later this year.”

The plans involve a new Homebase, Pets at Home and one further 7,000sq.ft retail unit. The Prosser Engine Shed will be refurbished for Majestic Wine and a Listed Engine Shed overlooking the station concourse is intended to be the new home for local touring theatre group, Theatre sans Frontiers. Northern Rail and Network Rail will also deliver a range of improvements at Hexham station, including a new 24-space station car park and pedestrian access to serve the platform on the north side of the railway tracks.


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2012/07/04/public-to-see-plans-for-old-rail-yard-in-hexham-51140-31318372/

Hexham Racecourse wind turbine plan thrown out
by Brian Daniel, The Journal, July 5th 2012


CONTROVERSIAL plans to put a wind turbine on a Northumberland racecourse have been thrown out. The plans for the racecourse at Hexham were rejected by Northumberland County Council planners. At the same meeting of the authority’s planning and environment committee, members voted against an application for a wind monitoring mast at Belford.

However, they approved plans for a turbine close to Hadrian’s Wall, for a monitoring mast beside the A1 at Felton and allowed a wind farm developer to vary the hours it can work at its site at Birtley, off the A68 in Northumberland. All five applications had been recommended for approval.

The bid for the turbine at the racecourse, within the green belt, was thrown out having attracted 52 letters of objection. It had been deferred at the committee’s last meeting, to allow consideration of concerns raised by the AONB partnership over impact on the landscape.

Objector Louise Johnson, of Dotland Farm, Hexhamshire, whose home is 2.7km from the proposed site, attended Tuesday’s meeting at Morpeth’s County Hall. She welcomed the council’s decision last night, saying: “I feel that the committee members have taken it, this particular turbine application, they have done their homework and they have basically turned it down for the right reasons.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/07/05/hexham-racecourse-wind-turbine-plan-thrown-out-61634-31327315/#ixzz1zjhRUxLR

Hexham National Trust shop to close this summer
The Journal, March 26th 2012


THE National Trust shop in Hexham Town Centre will close this summer under cost-cutting moves. The shop has been a fixture on Market Street for many years.

It is said to be no longer viable and will shut down when the current lease runs out in June.

Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/northumberland-sites/hexham-northumberland/hexham-news/2012/03/26/hexham-national-trust-shop-to-close-this-summer-61634-30626150/#ixzz1qDjbLtXL


Took this photo of the (now) closed shop, when we were in Hexham on 19th June.

A pity, we often went in there . . .

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8422/7511078932_3d324bc9af_b.jpg

The National Trust shop in Hexham is now occupied selling wool.

http://www.woolaballoo.com/blog/?tag=hexham

Can Hexham maintain status and appeal?
The Journal, July 11th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nebusiness/jul2012/5/3/hexham-in-northumberland-515534530.jpg

HEXHAM is one of the North East's most attractive towns for residents and retailers alike. It was voted England's favourite market town by Country Life magazine in 2005, and is a strong regional centre with an extensive appeal to the local community and the wider geographical area that surrounds it.

Much of the town’s allure is based on its retail offerings and, in recent years, there have been a number of schemes proposed with the aim of building on its established reputation. Although many of these schemes have failed to get off the ground, there remains an undoubted need for some to come to fruition if Hexham is to retain its status and appeal. The prime retail pitch in the town centre is the fully pedestrianised Fore Street, with secondary retailing located in Market Place and along Priestpopple and Battle Hill.

Fore Street benefits from strong levels of demand and is home to a variety of national retailers together with the Robbs department store, which although previously independently owned was taken over by Beale’s in June 2010. On Fore Street, there are currently no vacant units but there have been a number of changes to the tenant line-up in the last couple of years with Mountain Warehouse taking over the former Stead & Simpson unit in February 2010 and Iceland taking on the former Woolworths premises.

Outside the prime retail area, Hexham has a number of other locations providing additional retail facilities.


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2012/07/11/can-hexham-maintain-status-and-appeal-51140-31367961/

Further to the above post about Hexham:

Next are wanting to come back into the town into the former Tynedale Retail Park site. However, a change of use from home furnishings to clothing has halted proceedings, probably as well as neighbouring Tesco objecting.

Also, plans have been submited to redevlop the station yard with Pets at Home and Homebase taking two units.

Hexham Courant Article: http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/stores-queue-up-for-move-into-hexham-1.970896?referrerPath=home

Plans for the station yard development: http://www.rokebydevelopments.co.uk/projects/hexham_goods_yard/

For discussion about access to the Goodsyard site over the railwayline at Hexham, see this:-
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=87800512&postcount=93

Egger UK investment set to safeguard future at Hexham
by Iain Laing, The Journal, July 13th 2012


WOOD PANEL maker, Egger UK, plans to make its second £20m investment in a year to improve the Hexham factory which it says is now the most advanced chipboard plant in Europe. The Norwegian company says there will be no new jobs at the site, which already employs 520 people, but that the investment will help to safeguard the future of the plant.

It has put in a planning application to upgrade its glues and coating plant, which are over 40 years old, and build new offices and a centre for training apprentices. The business is trying to grow in a sector which has been hit by a 55% rise in wood prices in the last five years and the decline in the housebuilding and furniture industries, and has made a series of investments to keep it at peak production. Its investment follows an announcement three months ago that it was spending £20m improving equipment used to laminate its wood panels used in furniture.

The plant is now Northumberland’s biggest private sector employer after the closure of the Alcan’s aluminium smelter in Lynemouth, and the company says it indirectly supports 1,500 jobs in the county in areas such as forestry and sawmilling.


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2012/07/13/egger-uk-investment-is-set-to-safeguard-future-51140-31384310/

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There is a very good thread about HEXHAM, on the "Photo Forums" / "Urban Showcase" Forum of Skyscraper City, here . . .

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=93237709#post93237709

Here are the photos from the Opening Post of that thread . . .


HEXHAM is a typically idyllic English Market Town with a population of about 11,000 it is located 30 Minutes west of Newcastle upon Tyne by car or train.

It is surrounded by lovely countryside .... and as a bonus it has a 13th Centry Abbey in the centre!

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0134.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0135.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0136.jpg

Hexham Old Gaol below is one of the oldest surviving prisons in England, it was completed in 1333.

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0137.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0138.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0139.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0140.jpg


Continued in NEXT Post . . .
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Continued from previous post . . .


Fore Street is the towns main pedestrianised shopping street

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0141.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0142.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0144.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0145.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0146.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0147.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0148.jpg

View from the park

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0149.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0150.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0153.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0154.jpg

Need a break after all this walking

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0156.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0157.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0158.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0159.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0160.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0161.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0162.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0163.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0165.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0166.jpg


Continued in NEXT Post . . .

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Continued from previous post . . .


The Jag adds a little extra class!

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0167.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0168.jpg

Nice little cinema still open

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0169.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0171.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0172.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0173.jpg

Rather imposing house!

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0174.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0175.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0176.jpg

Nice little Alfa

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0178.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0180.jpg

At 'Tyne Green'

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0185.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0186.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0263.jpg

Village of Newbrough

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0264.jpg

Housesteads Roman fort

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0266.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0267.jpg

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0268.jpg

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Work finally set to begin on Green Mansion
by Paul Tully, The Journal, July 31st 2012


NOVELIST Mark Burnell is preparing to write the final chapter in the saga of his revolutionary green-energy mansion. Thriller writer Mark is almost ready to start work on the groundbreaking country home for which he won permission 18 months ago. The concept and design of the site at Lowgate, near Hexham, took planners’ breath away when first unveiled in autumn 2010.

A semi-derelict farm steading, The Paise, will be transformed into a country home with a pre-insulated roof, glazed walls, insulated suspended floor, wind turbine, reed-bed filtration and photovoltaic and solar panels. Even the swimming pool will have a heating element for the whole house, which stands on the brow of a low hill in open countryside.

Mark and his artist wife Isabelle live at nearby West Greenridge Farm on land owned by Mark’s family for generations. Mark,46, said: “After we got permission, there were quite a lot of conditions that needed to be discharged, now we are just in the final stages of putting out to tender for the work. We will start work this year and hope to be completed by the end of 2013.”

Described as “a Cragside for the 21st Century”, The Paise development unnerved planners who hesitated before finally granting permission in January 2011


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/07/31/work-finally-set-to-begin-on-green-mansion-61634-31509754/#ixzz22Bc5QrlA

Hexham traders' parking plea rejected
by Northumberland County Council
by Paul Tully, The Journal, July 31st 2012


ANGRY traders say their businesses are being badly hit by a shift in local parking policy. Motorists who have parked unpunished on the yellow line outside shops at Hencotes, Hexham, for years are now getting expensive parking tickets. A new team of traffic wardens is operating a zero-tolerance approach, and motorists are abandoning their traditional quick stop on the road into the town centre from the west.

By September, new 20-minute free parking bays are due to be installed on Hencotes, but a plea to waive the parking enforcement rules until then was firmly refused by county highways chiefs. The impasse has left DELI-cious sandwich shop owner Mary Oswell fuming – and counting her losses. She said: “I’m going to lose my business as well as my friends. The business is dropping off at an alarming rate because of this. I feel I provide a service and employ local young people but trade is down about 15%.

“People are not going to risk a £60 ticket for a sandwich. I was making an egg mayonnaise sandwich for a customer one day, which is a two-minute job, but she went outside to find a parking ticket on her car. There have been 'parking conventions' in Hencotes for a long time, in that everyone parks on the north side to avoid congestion. We are getting parking bays put in on the street mid-September – so why can’t they leave it alone until then?”

Local councillor Terry Robson asked Northumberland head of sustainable transport Mike Scott for leniency over parking on Hencotes. “I was given a firm ‘no’, and I have to accept that,” said Coun Robson, a former Hexham town mayor.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/07/31/hexham-traders-parking-plea-rejected-by-northumberland-council-61634-31510447/#ixzz22BlMRQV5

More about The Paise (see item two up):-

As it is today:-

http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2556014

http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1463904

Proposal:- http://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/daily-news/newton-architects-reveals-pps7-farmhouse-conversion/8607830.article

http://www.alistairwbaldwin.co.uk/projectPortfolio.php?pid=20

Sparks fly over plans for Hexham Sele floodlight:-
www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/sparks-fly-over-plans-for-sele-floodlight-1.984682

Sparks fly over plans for Sele floodlight
By Brian Tilley, Hexham Courant, Wednesday 15th August 2012


PLANS to install floodlights on the Sele in Hexham to combat anti-social behaviour would be a crime, according to protesters. Wendy Breach, of Living Streets, says keeping the Sele in darkness will discourage groups gathering at the skate park late at night. They say twin 400-watt bulbs mounted on a 40-foot lamppost would ruin the ambience of the historic park.

However, the proposal was given the green light at Tuesday’s meeting of Northumberland County Council’s planning and environment committee, when members heard it was supported by Northumbria Police. The application was made by the county council itself, in response to repeated incidents of unruly behaviour by youths gathering on the Sele.

The committee heard in a report by planning officer Jennie Adamson that while the skate park and play areas were well used during the day, they had become a focal point for anti-social behaviour during the hours of darkness. She said: “As the area is not well lit and still tends to attract groups of people, any actual incidences of anti-social behaviour are compounded by a general perception of fear of anti-social behaviour.

“There have been repeated incidences of anti-social behaviour, resulting in assault and criminal damage which act as a deterrent to the legitimate use of the park and its facilities. Provision of a point of illumination in an area where young people may want to legitimately congregate would provide reassurance to them from such behaviour while also improving the safety of the park for the public in general.”


Read More - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/sparks-fly-over-plans-for-sele-floodlight-1.984682?referrerPath=sport

^^

Sparks fly over plans for Hexham Sele floodlight:-
www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/sparks-fly-over-plans-for-sele-floodlight-1.984682

Sorry, didn't spot you had posted a 'link' to the same article.

I don't live in Hexham now, but was there as a child, and I remember the Sele well, right in front of my school!

Henry VIII’s Hexham Abbey damage
is repaired after 475 years
by Paul Tully, The Journal, August 16th 2012


THE DAMAGE done by King Henry VIII, 475 years ago, is set to be put right in a Northumberland town. King Henry’s dissolution of the monasteries in 1537 took part of Hexham Abbey away from the English church. The much-married monarch then sold the medieval monastic buildings to Tudor nobleman Sir Reynold Carnaby, his royal representative in Hexhamshire.

Now the Grade I-listed Carnaby Buildings, as they are officially known, are being returned to the abbey as part of a £3m-plus development. The buildings, to the south-west of the abbey nave and attached to the main complex, passed through the hands of several families over the centuries after Sir Reynold died heirless in 1543 and the buildings reverted to the Crown.

Queen Elizabeth I sold the site to Sir Christopher Hatton in 1579, and from there it was owned by the Fenwicks, Blacketts, Wentworths, Beaumonts, Ogles and Forsters before finally coming into the freehold ownership of Northumberland County Council. Now Northumberland is gifting the buildings back to the abbey. And last night the authority’s west area planning committee formally approved the development plans which will see the ancient stone buildings transformed into a modern visitor centre.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/08/16/henry-viii-s-hexham-abbey-damage-is-repaired-after-475-years-61634-31633090/#ixzz23hE03pZu

http://www.tynedaleheritage.org/Sources/AbbeyTime.HTM

Prudhoe redevelopment objectors
to go to European Commission
by Paul Tully, The Journal, September 7th 2012


OBJECTORS fighting the Duke of Northumberland’s £30m redevelopment plans for a town are to take the battle to Europe. A plea to call in the proposals for Prudhoe Town Centre to a public inquiry have been rejected by Communities Secretary Eric Pickles, now the objectors are to take their fight to the European Commission for Environmental Assessment.

London-based former Prudhoe resident Peter Gallagher, who is leading the challenge, said: “If the EU Commission thinks there is a case to answer, they can freeze the whole process. “They have the power to stop it and look into the points we put to them. We are drawing up five main issues ... drainage, lack of consultation, light pollution, the acoustic wall and the electricity sub-station.”

The dispute over the ambitious plans for Prudhoe has been running since 2006.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/09/07/prudhoe-redevelopment-objectors-to-go-to-european-commission-61634-31784019/#ixzz25m28Qfu1

Last evening I attended a meeting to publicise the Hexham River Hydro which is proposed to install an Archimedes Screw to generate 100MW of electricity from river flow.

I haven't been able to find an online source which gives illustrations of the proposed scheme (there needs to be construction work to divert the river and also to construct a fish-pass as well as buildings to house the machinery and the necessary control equipment).
The project is being managed by the Hexham Community Partnership (http://www.hexhamcommunity.net/pages/projects/hexham-river-hydro.php) - maybe they will, in time, post details on their website.

Meanwhile I did find the following about the Forum Cinema which might be of interest to members here:-

The history of the Forum Cinema from 1937 to 2008
http://www.hexhamcommunity.net/pages/projects/the-forum-cinema/history.php

.

Work starts on Bardon Mill’s new Village Hall
by Paul Tully, The Journal, October 31st 2012


WORK has finally started on a unique and super-modern village hall almost four years after the first plans were laid. With over half a million pounds worth of funding in place, the sophisticated carbon-friendly green energy hall at Bardon Mill in the Tyne Valley is scheduled for opening in May next year.

Contractors are now on site and the first heavy earth-moving will begin next week. Eighteen different funders have been found for the £543,000 project, with the bulk – £354,576 – coming from the Big Lottery Fund.

The united effort within the village has been a triumph and all committee chair Dorothy Welsh said yesterday: “This is a big, big day for Bardon Mill. “It’s just a dream. Everybody is very excited, because this is for everybody, old and young and also for generations to come.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/10/31/work-starts-on-bardon-mill-s-new-village-hall-61634-32133484/#ixzz2ArlYeSNZ

Hexham hotel seeks investment partner for refurbishment
by Paul Tully, The Journal, November 2nd 2012


THE reopening of a listed hotel in Northumberland has been put back until the spring while the owners seek an investment partner for a £650,000 redevelopment. Punch Taverns planned to restore the Grade Two-listed County Hotel in Hexham town centre and have the hotel open this month after a nine-month shutdown, but now Punch say it is looking for a leaseholder tenant to take on a joint investment.

Jason Ronan, partnership development manager at Punch Taverns, said: “We want to get a partner in before we start work, and we want a partner in as soon as is practicable for both parties. It will be a leaseholder tenant, and they will put some investment into it. Nationally, we are spending £40m in the year ahead, and the £650,000 to be spent on the County Hotel at Hexham is huge."

“We did have one fairly prominent local chap who was keen, but circumstances have changed and now he’s not keen to do it, but we continue to progress with the people who have put themselves forward. However, with Christmas looming, we are not going to start work quickly. When we do start, it will be an eight-to-ten-week programme so we are now expecting to reopen in spring 2013.”

The 16-room hotel, on Priestpopple, will have seven new en suite rooms added as part of the refurbishment.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/11/02/hexham-hotel-seeks-investment-partner-for-refurbishment-61634-32149185/#ixzz2B3aSKIZN

Meanwhile the Royal Hotel remains closed . . .

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/restaurant-s-sudden-closure-1.901253

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/three-arrested-in-raid-1.917373

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/arson-suspected-at-hotel-1.922088

Meanwhile the Royal Hotel remains closed . . .

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/restaurant-s-sudden-closure-1.901253

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/three-arrested-in-raid-1.917373

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/arson-suspected-at-hotel-1.922088


Very sad indeed, the Royal Hotel is not only an important 'landmark place' within my early life, but (more importantly) it is a major landmark in the history of Hexham, in the last century.

Hopefully, something will happen to save it.

According to the Sunday Sun, the Hexham Royal Tandoori have not paid the fine imposed on them for employing illegal immigrants.

I wonder if the owners of the Royal Hotel are known - or whether they have just absconded?

http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2012/11/04/north-firms-named-and-shamed-over-illegal-workers-79310-32162031/

http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2012/11/04/north-firms-named-and-shamed-over-illegal-workers-79310-32162031/2/

According to the Sunday Sun, the Hexham Royal Tandoori have not paid the fine imposed on them for employing illegal immigrants.

I wonder if the owners of the Royal Hotel are known - or whether they have just absconded?

http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2012/11/04/north-firms-named-and-shamed-over-illegal-workers-79310-32162031/

http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2012/11/04/north-firms-named-and-shamed-over-illegal-workers-79310-32162031/2/

I used to live in Norfolk and it was appalling the number of illegal workers who were caught. Cromer was notorious for the illegals cockle hunting and at one point a number of them died due to a flash inward tide. It's easy to apportion blame but it's not the illegals fault really, they are just trying to earn a living but it is difficult to feel sorry for them.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/rtzi05b00sij55v/Hexham%20Hydro%20Display%20%28IC%29.pdf

Sainsbury's pulls out of Prudhoe Town Centre redevelopment
by Paul Tully, The Journal, November 7th 2012


THE supermarket giant at the heart of controversial Prudhoe Town Centre redevelopment plans has pulled out at the 11th hour. Sainsbury’s will no longer be part of the Duke of Northumberland’s £30m plans for Prudhoe. Yesterday the Duke’s Northumberland Estates office confirmed Sainsbury’s had withdrawn and said it was now speaking to a number of possible replacements. The Duke’s head of planning, Colin Barnes, insisted they were confident another supermarket would be found to fill the gap, although that will now not be until after the new year. Mr Barnes said the supermarket was essential to the Prudhoe plans and Sainsbury’s decision had been taken due to difficult market conditions.

Sainsbury’s chief executive, Justin King, said: “I can confirm that Sainsbury’s will not be the operator of the food store within the Northumberland Estates scheme. While we are always looking for opportunities for new supermarkets and convenience stores, we have no plans for Prudhoe at present.”

Campaigners who have fought the redevelopment plans for five years greeted the news with cautious optimism – adding Sainsbury’s departure could yet scupper the unpopular scheme.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/11/07/sainsbury-s-out-of-town-centre-plan-61634-32183263/#ixzz2BWoZriWZ

Hexham Civic Society opposes two town developments
by Paul Tully, The Journal, November 17th 2012


HERITAGE GUARDIANS in a North East England market town, have come out in opposition to two major projects. Hexham Civic Society has branded a proposed seven-storey town centre 45-apartment retirement block as a “Tower of Mabel” – a pun on the Tower of Babel from the Book of Genesis, and it criticises plans for new industrial units on the disused goods yard at Hexham Station as “a generic set of big boxes”.

The Civic Society says it will object to both proposals in their current forms.

While supporting the principle of the developments, it says it is concerned at the physical nature of the proposals. The former swimming baths on Gilesgate, a one-time wool warehouse built by Henry Bell in 1885, stand in the town conservation area. After an initial consultation with developers McCarthy & Stone on October 4, the Civic Society voiced concerns over the height of the building as well as the loss of mature trees, and asked for brick, stone and slate to be used instead of render and profiled metal roofing.

However, following a further meeting on November 6 the society said: “We are sad to report that no significant changes appear to have been made to the scheme."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/11/17/hexham-civic-society-opposes-two-town-developments-61634-32250279/#ixzz2CTalMeIa

I can foresee a problem with the development planned for the swimming-pool site, as there is a 'right of way' that winds its way down the steep slope where the apartment-block is proposed.
Usually, when a right of way is to be closed, an alternative route has to be provided, however I fail to see that this would be possible.
The route provides a shortcut between Gilesgate and Haugh Lane.

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=hexham&hl=en&ll=54.973374,-2.103329&spn=0.001579,0.004393&sll=52.8382,-2.327815&sspn=6.650825,17.995605&t=h&hnear=Hexham,+Northumberland,+United+Kingdom&z=18&layer=c&cbll=54.973304,-2.103188&panoid=zoz3r7v0ZrX6xfwq91IZ9Q&cbp=12,236.16,,0,-8.95

http://wikimapia.org/#lat=54.9732515&lon=-2.1035861&z=19&l=0&m=h

A new footpath will be created between the development and the Links building in Haugh Lane, involving seven flights of steps, emerging between the swimming pool and the existing Gilesgate Court flats.
From:- http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/tall-storeys-on-hexham-pool-site-1.1013770?referrerPath=news

Hexham flats plan is a towering disgrace:-

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/hexham-flats-plan-is-a-towering-disgrace-1.1017726

£8m retail park plan runs into opposition:-

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/8m-retail-park-plan-runs-into-opposition-1.1017731

Hilarious snobbery in that article

Build it on the Team Valley then, we'll welcome the jobs!

Housebuilding battles loom in Corbridge
by Paul Tully, The Journal, December 11th 2012


HOUSEBUILDERS refused permission to build on prime land in Tynedale 14 years ago are to make a second attempt to get the go-ahead. Taylor Wimpey’s plans for 50 homes on two sites in Corbridge were thrown out by the former Tynedale District Council in 1988. When the firm took the case to a public inquiry, it was defeated again, but now Taylor Wimpey is coming back for another attempt at the six-acre site near Cragside in the exclusive village.

Plans for 36 four and five-bedroomed houses there have been laid alongside proposals for 18 affordable two and three-bedroom houses and bungalows at nearby Synclen Avenue. Although no formal planning application has yet been made, a consultation meeting with villagers is to be held at Corbridge Parish Hall on Thursday from 4pm to 7pm and it seems inevitable that there will be substantial opposition to the plans in a village which carefully guards against expansion.

Corbridge county councillor Jean Fearon said: “This is very early days, but the approach has come from Taylor Wimpey. It is very low-key at this stage and we are simply allowing the public to know what Taylor Wimpey are actually doing.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/12/11/housebuilding-battles-loom-in-tynedale-61634-32401784/#ixzz2EjXM7Ycu

Hexham eco/green mansion starts to take shape
by Paul Tully, The Journal, December 28th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/dec2012/8/7/featured-565027490.jpg
Artist's impression of how Mark Burnell's old farmhouse at West Greenridge will look

THE eco-mansion which stunned planners over two years ago is finally taking shape. Novelist Mark Burnell and his wife Isabelle now anticipate the moment when The Paise, a run-down farmhouse just outside Hexham, becomes a green- energy family home. The super-modern design, featuring an insulated suspended floor, reed-bed filtration, glazed walls, a pre-insulated roof, pv and solar panels and a wind turbine has come off the drawing board into reality.

A swimming pool includes a heating element for the house, and the energy savings will in the long run recoup much, if not all, of the financial outlay. Work on the site at Lowgate is now under way, six years after the Burnells first dreamed up the design, and 26 months after the concept first went before county planners.

Thriller writer Mark,47, said: “Work has started and it is now full-speed ahead. Although we have not set any target date, I would think it would be complete by early autumn. We made a decision to stick to what we originally planned, and we have done that, although there are always minor details. The weather is the only big variable, but if we have a decent winter like last year we should be on course for next autumn.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/12/28/hexham-green-mansion-finally-starts-to-take-shape-61634-32505185/#ixzz2GL5hbixy

Battle for U-turn on lighting in listed Sele Park, Hexham
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 3rd 2013

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jan2013/4/5/hexham-civic-society-secretary-tim-tatman-is-campaigning-against-the-installation-of-lights-580300973.jpg
Hexham Civic Society secretary Tim Tatman is campaigning against the installation of lights

ENVIRONMENT watchdogs are battling to force a last-minute U-turn on security lights in a Grade II-listed park. Hexham Civic Society claims that Northumberland County Council was wrong to give the go-ahead in August for a 10m-high light with 400 and 250-watt lamps at the town centre Sele Park. The floodlight, intended to deter troublesome groups of youngsters, has not yet been erected. And the Civic Society is now prepared to take the case to the local government ombudsman if the council does not agree to a review of its decision.

The society claims the council erred in not speaking to the statutory consultee Garden History Society (GHS), a park conservation body, before deciding to install the light. In its latest newsletter, the Civic Society says: “While it may be right to illuminate the play area and skate park, the proposed 10m floodlights are excessive illumination, ugly, and will seriously diminish the quality of this space.”

The Sele is a “dark” park and local residents say the floodlight would be out of keeping with the site as well as the adjacent Abbey. As the Sele is a statutorily-protected Registered Park, it is claimed the GHS should have been asked for its views.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/01/03/battle-for-u-turn-on-lighting-in-listed-hexham-park-61634-32535870/#ixzz2GuA6sBMz

Listed Hexham hotel branded ‘a right Royal eyesore‘
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 28th 2013


A ROW is brewing over the future of a listed town centre hotel after it was branded “a grim and ugly eyesore”. The 193-year-old Royal Hotel in Hexham, a former coaching inn, has had its distinctive decorative frontage boarded up after standing empty for nearly a year, but for long-standing town councillor Matty Donnelly, the Grade II-listed building is now a right royal eyesore for visitors to the Tyne Valley’s capital.

The Royal Hotel, once a prestigious town centre venue with a ballroom and nightclub, fell into neglect last February after a tangled sequence of events. “I’m absolutely horrified by the boarding-up of the old Royal Hotel,” said Coun Donnelly. “It has stood vacant for almost a year and they’ve now boarded it up to make it secure but I think they could have left the frontage open.

The hotel, dating back to 1820, was taken over by new owners in 2008 and the Royal Orchid Thai restaurant opened in a front suite, but in November 2011 police and fire officers investigated electricity supply irregularities and a prohibition order was then issued because fire alarms and emergency lighting were inoperable. The hotel, on Priestpopple, is now in receivership and the council cannot issue an amenity notice to the building owners to secure the property.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/01/28/listed-hexham-hotel-branded-a-right-royal-eyesore-61634-32690961/#ixzz2JG4lIzbp

Listed Hexham hotel branded ‘a right Royal eyesore‘
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 28th 2013

A ROW is brewing over the future of a listed town centre hotel after it was branded “a grim and ugly eyesore”. The 193-year-old Royal Hotel in Hexham, a former coaching inn, has had its distinctive decorative frontage boarded up after standing empty for nearly a year, but for long-standing town councillor Matty Donnelly, the Grade II-listed building is now a right royal eyesore for visitors to the Tyne Valley’s capital.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/01/28/listed-hexham-hotel-branded-a-right-royal-eyesore-61634-32690961/#ixzz2JG4lIzbp


Listed “eyesore”, The Royal Hotel in Hexham, gets new look
by Paul Tully, The Journal, January 31st 2013


A LISTED BUILDING, branded an eyesore in a country town, was yesterday given a new lick of paint after a wave of complaints. The Grade II-listed Royal Hotel on Priestpopple in Hexham town centre had its famous frontage boarded up by contractors for newly-appointed receivers last week after standing empty for almost a year, but the “grim and ugly” brown wooden boards covering the plate-glass street-front windows of the former coaching inn got a thumbs-down from townsfolk, including town councillor Matty Donnelly.

Coun Donnelly said: “It really has been the talking-point of Hexham – and the last straw for many – when the feedback I’m getting is that people think Hexham is getting increasingly dilapidated and neglected. “The Royal is right in the centre of town opposite the bus station and it’s awful to have it in that state.”

Receiver Kevin Oliver responded swiftly to the complaints ... and yesterday the paint pots were out. “The contractors were sent back out yesterday afternoon to paint the boards white, which matches the frontage of the hotel,” Mr Oliver said. “I had told the contractors to paint the boards before they put them in, and when they didn’t, they were then told in no uncertain terms to do it as soon as the weather allowed.”


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/01/31/listed-eyesore-the-royal-hotel-in-hexham-gets-a-new-look-61634-32715418/#ixzz2JXw8YtZ5

Clash over MP Guy Opperman's suggestion to
revive Tynedale District Council
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 7th 2013


A NORTH MP’s call for the re-establishment of an abolished District Council has met with an angry response. Hexham Conservative MP Guy Opperman urged in the House of Commons that Northumberland County Council should be disbanded and Tynedale District Council brought back into operation. He claimed the current Liberal Democrat-led Northumberland authority had neglected the west of the county and a new direction was needed.

County Council leader Jeff Reid last night ridiculed the suggestion, declaring: “The cost of administration would rocket. It is totally impractical.” The Hexham MP, speaking in the Commons, said: “I propose the disbandment of the unitary authority that was created by Lord Prescott. Localism would then return to its purest form, and we would get back Tynedale district authority, which is much missed. Right now towns in west Northumberland like Hexham and Haydon Bridge are suffering serious neglect from this county council."

Tynedale, then controlled by the Conservatives, was among the district authorities abolished in 2009 under local government reorganisation.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/02/07/clash-over-mp-guy-opperman-s-suggestion-to-revive-tynedale-district-council-61634-32760202/#ixzz2KCkHBFTC

Clash over MP Guy Opperman's suggestion to
revive Tynedale District Council
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 7th 2013


A NORTH MP’s call for the re-establishment of an abolished District Council has met with an angry response. Hexham Conservative MP Guy Opperman urged in the House of Commons that Northumberland County Council should be disbanded and Tynedale District Council brought back into operation. He claimed the current Liberal Democrat-led Northumberland authority had neglected the west of the county and a new direction was needed.

County Council leader Jeff Reid last night ridiculed the suggestion, declaring: “The cost of administration would rocket. It is totally impractical.” The Hexham MP, speaking in the Commons, said: “I propose the disbandment of the unitary authority that was created by Lord Prescott. Localism would then return to its purest form, and we would get back Tynedale district authority, which is much missed. Right now towns in west Northumberland like Hexham and Haydon Bridge are suffering serious neglect from this county council."

Tynedale, then controlled by the Conservatives, was among the district authorities abolished in 2009 under local government reorganisation.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/02/07/clash-over-mp-guy-opperman-s-suggestion-to-revive-tynedale-district-council-61634-32760202/#ixzz2KCkHBFTC

Guy Opperman is a top bloke and only speaks out when he feels it matters. A personal friend of mine is very good friends with Guy and I often read about his idea's on my friends Facebook.

Hexham Rail yard redevelopment plan is agreed
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 22nd 2013


AN £8m, 100-job retail development on a conservation area site has been given the go-ahead despite protests from heritage watchdogs. The goods yard at Hexham railway station will become a new business hub for the town with large national chains such as Homebase DIY moving in. Councillors on the county’s west area planning committee gave unanimous conservation area consent, listed building consent and planning permission after a fierce debate.

However, while it will bring a much-needed business boost to the town, Hexham Civic Society said it was “very disappointed” at the decision – and accused the county council of allowing a “very low quality threshold” for Hexham. HCS chair Roger Higgins said: “We concede we have lost the battle, but we are disappointed with Northumberland County Council’s low aspirations for the site. “As far as we can see, Hexham has been sold very cheaply – there is a very low quality threshold." The Civic Society branded the proposals “retro-fitted, generic and poorly-designed, failing to match Hexham’s unique setting."

Hexham Town Council supported the Civic Society in its objections. Members had particular concern over the proposed demolition of the old stables building and signalman’s bothy plus the affect on other buildings described as non-designated heritage assets, including the Prosser engine shed.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/02/22/hexham-rail-yard-redevelopment-plan-is-agreed-61634-32856884/#ixzz2LcSRwUZ3

Further to ^^

Plea to Beamish to save Hexham
railway station's heritage assets
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 26th 2013


HERITAGE guardians hope two endangered examples of a town’s heritage can be saved and preserved – as museum pieces. Hexham Civic Society is battling to rescue an old stable building and signalman’s bothy from demolition under proposals to convert the goods yard at Hexham railway station into a modern £8m retail site. The plans, agreed by county planners last week, would involve the removal of the “non-designated heritage assets”.

However, HCS is now to ask Beamish Open Air Museum in North West Durham to salvage the buildings. Society chairman Roger Higgins, said yesterday: “Our preference would have been to see the stable building and the signalman’s bothy remain in situ. They lose a lot of their significance when they are no longer in the station yard. But rather than lose the buildings all together, we feel Beamish would be a good home for them.”

HCS trustee Pat Caris has made an initial inquiry to Beamish but with museum curator Jim Rees on holiday no reply has yet been received.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/02/26/plea-to-beamish-to-save-hexham-railway-station-s-heritage-assets-61634-32880730/#ixzz2LzjzmQlS

Payment idea for Hexham bus station upgrade slammed
by Paul Tully, The Journal, February 28th 2013

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/feb2013/8/9/featured-hexham-bus-station-215991892.jpg
Dr Anne Pickering who has collected a petition to keep Hexham bus station where it is in the town centre

A NORTH MP has branded proposals to use a town's parking fees to upgrade its crumbling bus station as double taxation. Hexham Tory Guy Opperman says the Lib Dem suggestion would amount to daylight robbery with taxpayers paying twice for what should come out of council coffers.

Hexham Lib Dem county councillor Derek Kennedy suggested last week that the £375,000 raised annually from Hexham’s parking charges should be ring-fenced and used for local projects including much-needed renovation of the central bus station on Priestpopple, but Mr Opperman, who was one of hundreds who signed a petition last year calling for the station to be rebuilt, said: “This is scandalous, our bus station is the responsibility of Northumberland County Council and our residents already pay their council tax just like everyone else in the county, so why should they have to pay twice?


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/02/28/mp-guy-opperman-slams-payment-idea-for-hexham-bus-station-upgrade-61634-32895438/#ixzz2MBhNGkWO

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Looking back through this thread, the story around the below buildings have been mentioned many times. Here is the latest, from today (1st March 2013) . . .

Hexham 'Crown Jewel' buildings taken off market
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 1st 2013

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2011/4/8/460-prospect-house-hexham-261868160.jpg

TWO unsold “crown jewel” buildings in Hexham are being taken off the market after two-and-a-half years ... and kept by Northumberland County Council. The £1m-valued Hexham House and Prospect House were marketed in autumn 2010 as part of a four-property sale aimed at raising £4m in the economic downturn, but although the Old Grammar School was sold, and there are independent development plans for the Old Swimming Pool, no suitable offer has been tabled for either of the others.

Now the council has unveiled plans to convert Hexham House, the former council HQ which overlooks attractive public parks, into a picturesque wedding venue and registrar’s office. Prospect House, where council functions and meetings are held, is to be refurbished for possible rented accommodation and offices. Both buildings will be retained by the county council, which will receive income from them.

Hexham county councillor Derek Kennedy announced the withdrawal of the prestigious town-centre buildings from the sale market yesterday. He said: “I am delighted to announce that the county council is planning to refurbish Hexham House and use it as a Registrar’s and as a wedding venue. The former headquarters of Tynedale Council is an iconic building. The people of Hexham will be delighted with this news ... it will change an old council office building into a lovely historical venue which can be used by the general public."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/03/01/hexham-crown-jewel-buildings-taken-off-market-61634-32902626/#ixzz2MHl1tXJI

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There is a very good thread about HEXHAM, on the "Photo Forums" / "Urban Showcase" Forum of Skyscraper City, here . . .

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=93237709#post93237709

Here are the photos from the Opening Post of that thread . . .

I'm glad you enjoyed them, i'm hoping to add some more Northumbrian towns on my next visit home later this month.....weather permitting!

I'm glad you enjoyed them, i'm hoping to add some more Northumbrian towns on my next visit home later this month.....weather permitting!


You would be welcome to post some of the photos on this thread, as well!

Hexham is a place I grew up in, so I loved your photos!

:)

You would be welcome to post some of the photos on this thread, as well!

Hexham is a place I grew up in, so I loved your photos!

:)

It's a place I like a lot, its where my dad grew up and my grandma still lives there.

Yes, I regularly check-in on that thread and enjoy seeing your fathers photos... especially the one of the Beaumont Street statue that I snapped.


Your photo from May 2012 . .

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0144.jpg


My Dad's photo from August 1930 . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/GeorgeBensonMonument-HexhamAugust1930_0001.jpg


THAT statue (known as 'Bensons Statue' or 'Bensons Memorial') has recently become a fairly important location in my family's story.

I am currently writing a Family History (from 1888 to the present day) using old letters, photos, diaries and assorted other documents, and amongst those documents is a series of 'old postcards' that have survived (kept by my Grandmother) since the 1905 to 1912 era.

Many are "to" my Grandmother (my fathers mother) and in a few of them that I have just found in an old suitcase from circa 1911, they are 'anonymous' or are signed by initial only and refer to "meetings" at Bensons Memorial (which was a very new meeting place, in those days).

We think they are from my eventual Grandfather-to-be . . . but we can't be absolutely sure!!

Here is one example (from 1911) that refers to a proposed meeting at Bensons Memorial . . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/5-CrypticMessageMBorGWashtn_zps0ab40524.jpg


Hexham played a major role in my Family History :)

Hotel plan for Hexham Old Grammar School
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 9th 2013

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/apr2012/0/8/the-old-grammar-school-in-hexham-107023117.jpg
The Old Grammar School in Hexham

PLANS are being made to turn a prime building in a Northumberland town into a high-grade hotel. The Old Grammar School in Hexham – one of four ‘crown jewel’ county council-owned buildings in the town put up for sale two-and-a-half years ago – could become a hotel within the next year if the plans go through smoothly.

Corbridge property dealer Ray Winfield, who paid £430,000 for the historic white-fronted former school at auction last summer, has put it on the market again at a “break-even” £485,000, and leading the queue of interested parties is a North-East-based property developer with “strong” links to a hotel group. An initial pre-planning submission is being revised due to archaeological considerations, but substantial preparatory work has already been carried out. The eventual scenario could be a 100-room, £8m hotel employing around 140 staff in the heart of Hexham’s conservation area at Hallgate.

The Grade Two-listed, 16th-Century building was one of four in Hexham put up for sale for a combined £4m in autumn 2010. Hexham House and Prospect House are now being retained by Northumberland County Council, while the Old Swimming Pool on Gilesgate is the subject of a planning application by prospective developers, but the Old Grammar School, which was used by the county as a planning office, was sold to Mr Winfield for a knockdown £430,000 ten months ago.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/03/09/hotel-plan-for-hexham-old-grammar-school-61634-32952528/#ixzz2N2G5hxxi

A 'new' hotel seems ambitious when there are two derelict hotels (the County and the Royal) in the town.

Of course, their demise might have been due to neglect, but I notice that the Angel in Corbridge is selling its Radcliffe annex (the Radcliffe was an independent private hotel before it was amalgamated into the Angel - located opposite).

Oh - and the Angel is currently ripping out internal features, so it suggests that it is not fully occupied. Maybe they are having to upgrade their rooms?

Your photo from May 2012 . .

http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab341/otisreed/Hexham/DSCN0144.jpg


My Dad's photo from August 1930 . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/GeorgeBensonMonument-HexhamAugust1930_0001.jpg


THAT statue (known as 'Bensons Statue' or 'Bensons Memorial') has recently become a fairly important location in my family's story.

I am currently writing a Family History (from 1888 to the present day) using old letters, photos, diaries and assorted other documents, and amongst those documents is a series of 'old postcards' that have survived (kept by my Grandmother) since the 1905 to 1912 era.

Many are "to" my Grandmother (my fathers mother) and in a few of them that I have just found in an old suitcase from circa 1911, they are 'anonymous' or are signed by initial only and refer to "meetings" at Bensons Memorial (which was a very new meeting place, in those days).

We think they are from my eventual Grandfather-to-be . . . but we can't be absolutely sure!!

Here is one example (from 1911) that refers to a proposed meeting at Bensons Memorial . . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/5-CrypticMessageMBorGWashtn_zps0ab40524.jpg


Hexham played a major role in my Family History :)


Fascinating photo and postcard there. Unfortunately I wasn't able to stand in the middle of the road as your dad was!

Tyne Valley Retail Park given green light for overhaul
by Ruth Lognonne, The Journal, March 13th 2013


A RETAIL PARK IN HEXHAM has been given the green light for a complete overhaul.

Rokeby Developments, in conjunction with Network Rail, have secured planning permission for Tyne Valley Retail Park on the former station goods yard. The retail park will comprise 34,757sq ft of new retail warehouse accommodation with a refurbishment of the former engine shed, designed by Thomas Prosser, the first architect permanently employed by the North Eastern Railway. The wider scheme will also include an element of office and industrial accommodation and much-needed car parking space and disabled access to the north of the station.

The scheme has been on the drawing board since 2006 and comes at a time when there is growing concern about the number of vacant shops on the high street within the town. Together with the proposed new Next store adjoining Tesco, it represents a vote of confidence in the town. Terms have been agreed with Homebase, Pets At Home and Majestic Wine and there is one remaining unit of 7,500sq ft available to let.


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2013/03/13/tyne-valley-retail-park-given-green-light-for-overhaul-51140-32975856/

170 express views on new Corbridge housing plans
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 15th 2013


A VILLAGE has turned out in force to register fierce opposition to controversial house-building plans. More than 170 people crowded into Corbridge Parish Hall to face developers planning 54 executive and affordable homes in the village.

Taylor Wimpey’s plans for Deadridge Lane and Synclen Estate have stirred up major opposition from local people who believe the extra housing cannot be sustained. They also argue extra traffic will compromise safety on tight roads and for children at the village first school.

David Welsh, one of the leaders of the opposition campaign, said: “Our hope is that Taylor Wimpey has at least been given opportunity to pause for thought. “There was a packed hall, with people standing out in the corridors, and that demonstrates the feeling within the village. I asked how many people were in favour of more executive housing in Corbridge and not one of the 170-odd people present said they were. Everybody is keen to see an opportunity for affordable housing in the village, but it’s where and on what scale they plan to build that is the problem."


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/03/15/170-express-views-on-new-corbridge-housing-plans-61634-32992087/#ixzz2NbO3KRdI

Recession-hit Hexham's future called into question
By Paul Tully, Sunday Sun, March 24th 2013

http://i2.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article1944642.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/hexham1-1944642.jpg
Hexham Marketplace

Hexham was once voted England’s favourite market town. In the wake of claims of disrepair Paul Tully investigates if the title still applies. The famous 'Hexham Abbey' forms a magnificent centrepiece and the historic market square resonates with history and the parks and 100-year-old bandstand are an oasis of greenery and calm. However, around the town centre of Hexham, the effects of recession are beginning to creep in.

A number of shops stand empty, two of its three hotels are currently closed, yet among the traders and townsfolk there is a determination that the jewel of the Tyne Valley will survive and prosper in times to come. Former Mayor Terry Robson has seen many changes in his lifetime in Hexham and admits the spate of recent shop closures is “depressing”. Now a county and town councillor, he feels Northumberland County Council lacks the capability and interest to look after the county’s market towns, including Hexham.

“Since local government reorganisation five years ago, the county council has lost credibility and capacity and the executive have chosen to centralise the organisation in Morpeth, taking hundreds of jobs from the town,” he said. “Not only that, but investment in the infrastructure has suffered, the deterioration of the town’s bus station being the prime example."

http://i1.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article1944641.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/hexham3-1944641.jpg
The Royal Hotel Hexham

“Recently there has been a spate of shop closures for a variety of reasons and this is depressing. I should like to see control and management pass to Hexham Town Council and others, with the precept to fund it so there is no question of double taxation.” He added: “I’m confident that market forces will generate demand though, and this historic place will soon be buzzing again."

"Hexham is the place to be!”


Read More - http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/hexham-still-englands-favourite-market-1944639

Demand for action on Hexham bus station improvements
by Paul Tully, The Journal, March 28th 2013

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%204/3193995_43292167_zps95394e85.jpg

THE BUS STATION in a Northumberland town has been branded a “disgrace” as a petition demanding improvements is launched. Hexham Bus Station has deteriorated badly in recent years, leaving passengers exposed to the elements with no shelter or toilet facilities. Plans to upgrade the station on Priestpopple have repeatedly stalled – but now town and county councillor and former town mayor Terry Robson is demanding action.

“Hexham Bus Station has long been a disgrace – now it's a scandal,” Coun Robson rapped. Public transport users, including the visitors we need so much, are treated as second-class citizens by Northumberland County Council. An e-petition has now been launched and we are circulating households with opportunities for a written petition. I want 10,000 people to sign the petitions. The full weight of the town needs to get behind this.”

Consultant engineers have been commissioned to draw up a report on the bus station after plans to move it to a site at Loosing Hill on the eastern fringe of the town centre were abandoned following a petition to keep it where it was.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/03/28/demand-for-action-on-hexham-bus-station-improvements-61634-33074161/#ixzz2OpLioFsY

The obvious solution would be to expand eastwards into the old and long empty George and Jobling premises, but the opportunity to acquire these premises seems to have been continually ignored.

Hexham small traders face the future together
by Paul Tully, The Journal, April 13th 2013


TRADERS in a Northumberland town are banding together to find ways of bringing back economic prosperity. Independent shopkeepers in Hexham have agreed to work with MP Guy Opperman to return the Tyne Valley 'capital' to the days of small-shop success. Under the slogan ‘In Hexham, For Hexham’, they will draw up a list of key changes they want to see and appoint a liaison officer.

Until a decade ago, Hexham was famous for its small-shop trading tradition, but since the arrival of edge-of-town supermarkets and major retailers, the once-strong independents have been on the back foot, with many closures. The Town Centre is now showing the clear effects of the downturn, with a number of fronts boarded up and two of the three hotels currently closed.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/04/13/hexham-small-traders-face-the-future-together-61634-33164401/#ixzz2QKjM8kcG

Housing plans start to encircle Hexham
Hexham Courant, Friday 10th May 2013

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/housebuilding-1.1055248!image/757510334.jpg_gen/derivatives/halfColumn/757510334.jpg

HEXHAM is in danger of being hemmed in by new housing. Plans have been lodged this week for 112 executive houses to the East of the town. A developer is already poised to build over a hundred more in the West End at Shaws Farm, opposite Hexham Golf Club.

With Two Castles Housing Association seeking to build 28 affordable homes in the east end, and the Labour administration promising to build 17 additional homes in Hexham as part of the 451 planned across the district, a building boom could be on the way.

The latest application comes from Hexham Auction Mart, which has applied for consent for 112 executive homes at Craneshaugh on the Corbridge Road.


Read More - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/housing-plans-start-to-encircle-hexham-1.1055233?referrerPath=news

Hexham's Fore Street Cafe site let, and details
of various other retail changes in the town
By Brian Tilley, Hexham Courant, Wednesday 8th May 2013

http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/polopoly_fs/hxgreggs18ct-1.1054745!image/3670505943.jpg_gen/derivatives/halfColumn/3670505943.jpg

THE former Greggs cafe and bakery in Hexham’s Fore Street has been let – but no-one is saying who the new tenant is. A new tenant has been lined up for the former Greggs cafe and shop on Fore Street. Speculation has been rife, however, with McDonald’s, Starbucks, Tesco Express, Costa Coffee and music dealers J.G. Windows all in the frame. However, both McDonald’s and Costa Coffee have ruled themselves out of taking over the £58,500 per year lease on the property. Confirmation that new tenants have signed up for the prime location came from letting agents Youngs RPS. However, spokesman Robbie Hutchinson said at this stage, he was unable to confirm who the tenants were – other than it was not McDonald’s. It is understood though that the new tenant will continue to operate the premises as a cafe, but will go more upmarket.

Another of the town’s long-term empty premises could also have a brighter future, with the former Sherlocks hair salon on Battle Hill set to become a bistro. However, the good news is counter balanced by the fact that a question mark remains over the future of the Thomas Cook travel agency on the opposite side of Battle Hill. It was earmarked for closure by the company as part of a “rationalisation” programme, and the compulsory 90-day consultation process with staff is drawing towards its conclusion. The glum news continues in Priestpopple, where the Fires and Fireplaces from C&F shop is closing, and in Back Street, the 'In the Chare' cafe has closed after six years.


Read More - http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/investor-lured-to-hexham-town-centre-site-1.1054744?referrerPath=news

Hexham MP throws his weight behind regeneration plan
by Paul Tully, The Journal, May 23rd 2013


MP GUY OPPERMAN is throwing his weight behind an action plan to revitalise Hexham. The North East’s only Conservative MP wants to get improvements to Hexham Town Centre on the local agenda by early June through the town and county councils. A 10-point plan underlining the Tory local elections manifesto has been drawn up and will back issues such as limited free parking, the green belt, bus station improvements and the possible introduction of a town centre manager. The action plan aims at a major improvement in Hexham’s deteriorating town centre over the next six to 12 months.

Town mayor Terry Robson, a town and county councillor, said: “This is a plan that I believe, as county councillors and as a town council, working with Guy, we can deliver on. It is no good sitting around waiting for the county council to come and give us what we want, that just isn’t going to happen. We have got to get out there and do it ourselves as a town, and I believe we can do just that.”

In 2005 Hexham was voted Britain’s best Market Town and Mr Opperman says a “wonderful” high street helped it achieve that status.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2013/05/23/hexham-mp-throws-his-weight-behind-new-regeneration-plan-61634-33372500/