Bus Station Site, Priestpopple, Hexham

Town centre site that was previously home to Hexham bus station. Now vacant following relocation of the facility and identified as a key redevelopment opportunity. Proposals for mixed-use redevelopment have been made on a number of occasions over the years, both limited to this site and as part of a wider scheme with adjacent land (2258, 2497). This planning history goes back over a long period. An initial permission for redevelopment of the bus station site, providing retail units and 30 flats, was granted in 1992 (T/92/E/398,T/950511). Despite renewal, this lapsed without a start being made. A number of years later, a revised scheme was submitted for redevelopment of both parcels (2258, 2497). Another application was approved in 2015 for a complex mixed-use scheme, comprising residential development along with retail, commercial and office floorspace (15/02794/FUL). Again, this lapsed. A total of 36 dwellings were proposed, comprising of 5 houses and 31 apartments in three blocks. The proposal included part demolition, reconstruction, alteration and conversion of the existing buildings. It has recently been confirmed that the site remains available. Delivery is currently forecast for the medium-term (6 to 10 years). Future redevelopment may be proposed in combination with adjacent land (2258, 2497). There will be opportunity for a higher density development in this location, probably an apartment scheme.