IT has been labelled a 'bomb site' and a 'blight on the town' by residents, but Hexham's former bus station is now on the market for £1.5 million.

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

An advertisement on the property consultants Youngs RPS website says the site extends to 0.82 acres and is suitable for residential/commercial use subject to planning consent.

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.

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.

A Courant online poll found the majority of responders - 33 per cent - favoured a community space.