THE ABANDONED former Hexham bus station has been labelled a “bomb site” amid fresh calls for its redevelopment.

The prominent town centre building, on Priestpopple, is back on the market after four years of uncertainty.

Dysart Developments announced plans in 2016 to create 2,466 square metres of commercial space, as well as an underground car park, 31 apartments and five affordable homes, as well as a much-needed pedestrian route through to the home of Marks & Spencer and B&M stores on Maidens Walk.

However the plans failed to materialise and county councillor for Hexham West, Coun. Derek Kennedy, said residents have been left with “failed promises”.

In 2018, the Courant reported Northumberland County Council wanted to create housing for the elderly, retail units and parking as part of a regeneration.

But a Northumberland County Council spokeswoman said the authority failed to agree terms with the owners of the site.

“It is now being offered to the open market,” the spokeswoman added. “Once the property is sold, we will be very keen to work with the purchaser to assist with new development that aligns with the ambitions of the town and the community.

“We know that key sites like the former bus station are very important for the town, and we are continuing to work with partners with the aim of securing a positive future for it.”

The news of a £2.4m boost for Hexham’s high streets has reignited the debate on the future of the former bus station site.

“This is the central area of the town and it’s little more than a bomb site,” Coun. Kennedy said.

“It’s a blight on the town and while I welcome the £2.4m funding we need action taken at the old bus station and former Beales buildings. It’s not a good image for the town.

“We’re finally seeing the developments of the Swimming Pool, Prospect House, Hadrian House and the high school, but it’s taken 10 years for something to be done. We can’t wait another decade for development on these prime sites.”

Coun. Kennedy, who also sits on Hexham Town Council, said the area should be transformed into a combined space of retail, housing and community areas.

He explained: “The key thing is getting the link through the town by extending the Market Place through to Fore Street and up to M&S.”

A Courant online poll found the majority of responders - 33 per cent - favoured a community space. Dysart Development was contacted for comment.