Gormley-associated fire station plans postponed

Proposals to demolish a disused fire station in Hexham are currently suspended as discussions continue over a potential sale to Sir Antony Gormley, the artist behind the Angel of the North. Gormley submitted plans to transform the former Tyne Mills Industrial Estate station into a studio for storing and possibly exhibiting his work.

In November, Northumberland County Council approved plans to demolish the building to expand the council depot. The announcement triggered public backlash, with local residents eager to see the site repurposed by the renowned sculptor. The council's decision is now on hold ahead of a full debate scheduled for January.

Over 3,000 people signed a petition urging the Conservative-led council to sell the station, and hundreds of Hexham residents organized a protest at Sele Hill, forming a human tribute to Gormley's Angel of the North.

The councils decision not to sell the property to Gormley was challenged by opposition councillors, leading to a scrutiny meeting. Sir Antony, known for the Angel of the North in Gateshead, is highly regarded throughout the region.

Hexham Mayor Derek Kennedy, leader of the council's independent group, suggested the site could generate 3 million annually if developed as a Gormley attraction. He proposed exploring a split site approach to accommodate both the artists plans and council requirements.

Liberal Democrat Suzanne Holly Fairless-Aitken criticized the council for glaring failures and misinformation, while Labours Scott Dickinson described the process as deceptive. Cabinet member for finance Nick Oliver rejected claims that councillors were surprised by the demolition plan, noting the station had never been for sale and previous conversion proposals, such as a cycling or climbing facility, had been rejected.

Oliver emphasized the councils need to expand the depot for vehicle maintenance and testing, assuring that there was no attempt to conceal the decision from the public or town council.

Deputy council leader Richard Wearmouth stated that Gormley and his foundation had been transparent about their proposal, which primarily focused on storage but could include public exhibitions. Wearmouth noted the situation had been misrepresented by others and expressed the councils willingness to collaborate with Gormley to identify an alternative site nearer to the town centre.

After a proposal from Conservative John Beynon to continue with demolition was rejected, the majority of the scrutiny committee opted to refer the matter to the full council. The debate is scheduled for 14 January, before any demolition can occur.

Author: Olivia Parker