A FORMER department store has sold for over the asking price.

The old Robbs building, later known as Beales and renamed Hexham Outlet Centre, was up for auction by Acuitus.

The shop, which flanks Hexham's Fore Street and Priestpopple, was due to go under the hammer on December 15 but was sold before the auction to a locally-based private limited company.

READ MORE: https://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/23199969.planning-applications-submitted-concerning-tynedale/

A spokesman for Acutius said they could not confirm the final sum, but that it was sold for over the guide price of £750,000.

The listing for the site covering 99,382 sq ft says: "The property comprises basement, lower ground, ground, first and second floors. 

"In addition, the property benefits from an extensive car park to the rear of the property. The property is currently part let to the Yorkshire Trading Company at a rent of £125,000 per annum inclusive.

"The entire property may be suitable for re-development subject to the necessary consents.

"The property also includes a detached, vacant, three-storey building located in the car park which may also be suitable for re-development, again subject to the necessary consents."

Plans had been mooted for the site for residential and retail units.

A spokesperson for landlord Buccleuch Property said: "We exchanged contracts on the sale of the property to a private company before the auction.

"The transaction is ongoing and as such, any further details remain confidential at this time."