PUBLIC opinion is being sought on plans which could see a building formerly used by youth groups in Prudhoe redeveloped.

A public consultation is taking place on proposals to develop the East Centre on the town's Front Street.

The Prudhoe Community Partnership (PCP) is working with interested parties to develop the site after the Northumberland County Council-owned building was deemed unsafe to use.

Plans centre around a new, purpose-built youth hub with community, support living, training and business facilities, while still retaining some of the former Victorian school and adult learning centre's important, local history.

The PCP, working with the Rural Design Centre, has commissioned seven design concept drawings from Mosedale Gillatt Architects Ltd. It is hoped three will soon be shortlisted.

A first-round consultation targeted elected members from Prudhoe Town Council, Northumberland County Council and PCP trustees but the designs are now on display at the Prudhoe Community Hub until February 4 for members of the public to cast their views. Local community groups and organisations will be consulted in due course.

The East Centre was put up for sale by Northumberland County Council in 2017 but was reversed after public outcry.

"We want to hear from members of the public, that's really important", said Caroline Warburton, PCP trustee and chair. "For people to take the opportunity to come along and view the displays in situ, talk to the people who are going to be there and record their views. This is the first of many consultations because as things move on, we will consult again and again and again, so that people get that chance to have their say."

Email comments can be sent to: prudhoech@gmail.com or drop-in sessions are on Monday 24 – 10am – 2pm; Tuesday 25 – 10am – 2pm; Tues 1 – 10am – 2pm; Saturday 5 - 10am – 12noon

"The site is so important to the whole community, this has been talked about for many years but now there is a real passion to drive this forward", added Coun. Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South on Northumberland County Council.

"Whatever is decided will see millions of pounds of investment into the town, the focus will be on providing the best possible facilities for young people. I would also like intergenerational work and older people to be considered throughout.

"Prudhoe has a very long and proud history, but it is now a modern town and these factors must be reflected in all we do."