A scheme proposed for the Allen Valleys is reaching for the stars - literally.

For the project, put forward by the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership, could see the opening of a community observatory at the Old School House in Allenheads, complete with an inflatable planetarium and other cutting edge facilities. 

The scheme is part of a £2.5million wider initiative to conserve the area's historic buildings, manage riverbanks, woodland and wildlife and promote the use of electric bikes and vehicles. 

If it comes to fruition, the dark skies observatory would be run by the AONB’s not-for-profit arm, Allen Valley Enterprise Ltd, working alongside Allenheads Contemporary Arts, which is based within the Old School House. 

The new observatory would act as a base for local astronomers keen to make the most of the rural community's renowned dark skies. 

It would also provide an educational resource for schools, and have economic benefits, with visitors from outside of the area expected to take a keen interest. 

A telescope would be located in a small dedicated observatory building, likely to be built behind the Old School House, while the inflatable planetarium would be housed in the building.

The site has been identified because of it's elevated location, and uninterrupted access to the skies.

It would have electrical hook-up points for amateur astronomers, and a "warm room" where people can watch video footage from the telescope while enjoying tea or coffee. 

For the full story don't forget to buy your Hexham Courant this Friday.