DISCUSSIONS over the future of George Stephenson’s Birthplace have taken a step forward as thousands offer their support.

A petition with close to 2,500 signatures has been handed to the National Trust, which has run the Wylam heritage site for over 60 years.

In January the trust opted to close the cottage, citing falling footfall and rising costs.

The closure was described as temporary but, fearing a long-term loss of a key part of Wylam’s history, locals reacted with outrage.

John Stewart spearheaded a petition to prevent the closure of George Stephenson’s Birthplace, which attracted support from around the world.

The petition of 2,429 signatures was presented to the National Trust this week.

John said: “Both the CEO and general manager for Hadrian’s Wall & Tyne Valley agree that my petition has clearly demonstrated the strength of feeling about the birthplace and in itself adds an important ingredient to the audience research.”

He added that his correspondence with the National Trust stated that visitor numbers dropped by 26 per cent in 2016.

The trust has previously said that the 2017 closure would offer time to “re-evaluate” the historical site’s future.

A feasibility study is being undertaken with the University of Northumbria and the trust is also said to be working closely with Wylam Railway Museum to share ideas.

The National Trust has also encouraged locals to participate in a consultation process.

John said: “The National Trust is completely open minded about how the cottage could be presented to better reflect its importance and welcomes all feedback and suggestions to make this site the success it should be.”

And following a meeting with two representatives of the National Trust, Wylam Parish Council is also feeling more positive.

A meeting was held on March 15 at which the National Trust offered reassurances that the closure would only last a year.

Parish council representatives made the point that last year’s visitor numbers could have been affected by the closure of Ovingham Bridge.

Vice-chairman, Coun. Tom Martin, said: “The National Trust is intending to explore and consult with the public to determine whether it’s possible to construct a model by which the site is financially viable.

“It was a positive meeting and I think we will just have to keep our fingers crossed to a certain extent.

“The support of the petition indicates the will is there for people to get involved and come up with ideas.

“The onus is now on the National Trust to engage with these different groups of people.”