PLANS are in progress to consult the community about the future of a former school site and residents are invited to have their say.
The public can share their views on the future of the former Hexham Middle school site by going to Hexham’s Queens Hall from 3pm-7pm on March 6 and from 10am-2pm on March 9 to view plans showing proposals for the site and talk to county council officers.
Alternatively, residents can share opinions online from March 6 at https://nland.cc/yourhexham.
Initial proposals incorporate a mixture of good quality housing, including affordable housing, bungalows, family homes and an extra care supported living scheme.
READ MORE: The 'Pedestrian Pound' key to developing former middle school
The 16-acre scheme will be linked to the town centre and incorporate areas of green space with footpaths and landscaped areas, improved access and a community garden.
Leader of Northumberland County Council, Glen Sanderson, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to provide something truly special for the town and we really do want residents to share with us their views on the proposals which have been drawn up based on what we understand to be the needs of the local community.
“I have seen the draft masterplan which retains the essence of the site and incorporates something for all ages of the community with a mix of good quality housing and open green spaces. At this stage nothing is set in stone, we want the public’s views on our overall approach and the ideas behind the design.
“I’d really like to encourage everyone to get involved. It is a large and important site, and we want to get it right for the people of Hexham.”
Northumberland County Council owns the land and in September last year appointed IDP Architects to look at all options for utilising this key vacant 16 ½ acre site on Wanless Lane.
IDP is carrying out a Master Planning exercise of the site. This involves identifying potential uses, site layout and density, and developing costings and valuations.
Councillor Sanderson added: “We hope everyone involved in the town will take the time to view the proposals, either at the exhibition, or online, and give us their views. We will have officers from our planning, housing and adult services team present to answer any questions and to explain the proposed plans.”
Hexham Middle School moved to the existing Queen Elizabeth High School site in September 2021.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here