AFTER more than 20 years in the gestation, detailed plans for the redevelopment of Hexham bus station into a £13m showpiece of shops and flats have finally been submitted.

The application comprises some 50 documents, some of them statements running to 70-plus pages, which, if approved, would bring the most comprehensive changes to Hexham town centre in 80 years.

The development would include 36 new homes, as well as a parade of shops which already have high class tenants lined up as potential occupants.

Submitting the application on behalf of developers Dysart, architect Garfield Nairn said: “The development of Hexham bus station represents a significant improvement within the Hexham Conservation Area.

“What is created is not only a long-awaited link between the town centre and the Marks & Spencer car park area, but a true street: a street that creates its own place and pays respect to what currently exists within Hexham.

“This is a scheme that has its origins set over 20 years ago. It is only now being realised by the proactive stance taken by the local authority and the financial backing of a developer which has taken the time, cost and effort to create an environment that makes this much-needed improvement possible.”

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