AN ambitious scheme to build 45 new flats on the site of a former swimming pool is pressing ahead after overcoming Covid-related challenges.

The former Hexham Wool Warehouse building, which served the town's pool between 1974 and 2008, was razed to the ground in a high-profile demolition project during the second half of this year.

But the historic facade of the Victorian structure has been retained, and will ensure an attractive frontage for the new development, in keeping with the conservation area in which it is situated.

Developers Hexham Wool Warehouse Ltd - named in accordance with the site's history, said the scheme had been affected by Covid.

However, company director Bob Skelly said building work was set to get under way early in the New Year, with a 12-month build programme starting in January.

"Covid has had some effect," he said. "We've had to minimise that and the demolition contractors worked within strict regulations.

"It's an exciting scheme and it will look good. The facade is not listed, but it is important and it will blend in with the area and retain it's special appearance."

Covid has not been the only challenge during the project. The old building was attached to the neighbouring Gilesgate Court, while part of the site is sloped, which meant that demolition was both a sensitive and a gradual process.

Mr Skelly said that North-East firm Mack Contracts ensured that 95 per cent of materials from the demolition - including steel, concrete, stone, brick and wood, were recycled.

The scheme was unanimously approved by Northumberland County Council’s strategic planning committee in October last year. It will include 39 two-bedroom apartments, including two duplex units, and six one-bed apartments.