ACCOMMODATION in Hexham which once provided shelter for young people in need is being sold off by Isos.

The social landlord confirmed this week that it has decided to put the nine-bed accommodation element of the former Links building on Haugh Lane on the market.

The £1.25m building was built in 2003 as a joint venture between Isos and the charity Links Housing, Advice and Support for Young People.

Specifically designed to provide temporary accommodation and training for young homeless people, the building is divided into two parts; the accommodation, owned by Isos and the training facilities, leased to the Links charity.

Initially the accommodation was managed on behalf of Isos by Links, with funding provided through Northumberland County Council.

But in March 2009, the council awarded the support contract to Barnardo’s who continued to manage the accommodation until March this year, when they were forced to withdraw due to funding pressures.

The remainder of the building, containing training and meeting rooms, remains let to the Links charity on a long lease. However, with no service currently being delivered, Links trustee Julian Weightman confirmed the charity is assessing its options for future use of the space.

A spokesman for Isos said: “Since Barnardo’s departed, we have held discussions with prospective partners about leasing the accommodation, but it has not been possible to reach agreement.

“We have reluctantly decided to put the accommodation element of the building, up for sale and would re-invest the proceeds from a sale into building more affordable homes elsewhere in the district.”

Isos has issued assurances that the Links building will be “properly maintained” during the sale process.