THE first passengers will be able to use Hexham’s new bus station in early November, according to the latest information from Northumberland County Council.

Alterations to signs suggesting work on the £2m project had been delayed by up to four months caused confusion when the expected length of the project was changed from six months to 10 months.

Hold-ups in sourcing materials for the new facility at the former Loosing Hill car park are thought to be behind the time lags in construction.

A council spokesman said: “The likely timescale for the bus station opening is early November.

“This is due to minor delays during the construction programme of this flagship project, which will provide a first-class facility for the community of Hexham and surrounding area.

“Key stakeholders are being kept informed of developments.”

The news has been met with disapproval from many local residents and councillors who have pointed out that work on the town’s new service station, just off the A69, seems to be progressing much faster.

County councillor for Hexham East, Cath Homer, said: “I’m obviously disappointed, particularly as I would have thought materials would have been sourced at the outset.

“It was a long and difficult decision to move the bus station and I just want it built and operational now, however I do not want any short cuts with its design or function, so if we have to wait, then wait we will!

“I have told the engineer that there is no excuse now not to have all the bus stops in place on Priestpopple before the bus station now opens.”

Once completed, the new facilities will include an enclosed waiting area, toilets and a refreshment booth, as well as 50 parking spaces.