PLANS to transform an historic Grade II listed building in the heart of Hexham into 16 new homes is progressing well.

The former Prospect House council chamber is set to welcome new homeowners in early 2021 through a joint venture between LOK Developments, part of The Morton Group, and Hilltop Credit Partners.

The former council building will be converted into 11 apartments, with an addition of 5 new build properties.

The development has been named Montague Court after the 1st Marquess of Montagu and Earl of Northumberland, a leading partisan in the War of the Roses.

Kapex Construction, also one of The Morton Group companies, is carrying out the restoration of Montague Court.

Morton Group business development director Chris Nunn said: "This is a landmark building which is viewed with real importance to people living in Hexham.

“We’ve spent a great deal of time changing the look and feel of the building, which was cramped and not well laid out since it was last used as a council building in 2016.

“With expertise in restoring buildings of this nature, we’ve retained as many of the historic original features as possible, and we’re delighted to be breathing new life into an important building and to restore it to its former glory.

“This is a really nice development, close to the Abbey, Old Gaol and Moot Hall in the heart of Hexham market town, which has fantastic views over the Tyne Valley, with access to residents’ parking.

“We have an excellent tracked record of delivering sensitive restorations of Listed buildings and have previously converted Middleton Hall in Northumberland and recently restored All Saints Church in Newcastle.

“Hexham has a strong housing market and we’re sure units in this sought-after town will be snapped up."