FRUSTRATIONS have rightly been growing over the plight of Hexham’s former bus station.

The 1930s art deco building was once a jewel in Hexham’s crown, providing an essential transport hub in the town centre.

Now it is an abandoned and neglected relic of the past, considered a blight on the town rather than an asset.

It must not be forgotten that many people wanted the old bus station to be refurbished before it was decommissioned in 2016, to make way for a new facility at Loosing Hill.

Residents took comfort from the fact that great plans, to revive the site, appeared to be in the pipeline.

Yet four years on, nothing has come of the ambitious scheme to bring retail and accommodation to the prime location, on Priestpopple.

The appearance of a ‘for sale’ sign this week, and associated uncertainty over the site’s future, brings further despair for townsfolk.

It is not right that a market town which prides itself on its rich history, should have such visible signs of neglect at its very heart.

The local economy depends on footfall from visitors, and the derelict appearance of the old bus station, as well as other prominent sites, such as the former Beales department store, do nothing for Hexham’s image.

It has emerged that Northumberland County Council had been in negotiations to purchase the bus station site from developer Dysart, but the two parties were unable to agree terms.

It is right that the local authority has showed the willingness to work with a new buyer. Many different uses have been mentioned. Retail and housing remain options, while community space and even a tourist information centre are among suggestions which have been made.

Whatever it becomes, it is essential that this prime location becomes something suitable which will do Hexham proud.