New entrance for Boys’ Brigade Hall in Morpeth

Scaffolding has also been erected at the front of the building to inspect the stonework and repair the Victorian drainpipes and storm-damaged stained glass in the centre of the main window.

The new door from St James’s car park into the hall will improve accessibility, but there will be no loss of car parking spaces.

The painted hardwood door will have a fan light to match the existing double doors at the front of the building.

The work will be carried out by Historic Property Restoration.

The owners of the hall, the Morpeth Parish of the Church of England, received financial support for the work from Northumberland County Council.

A need to carry out repairs was identified during a feasibility study, funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund and the county council, to examine the future of the building.

It took place last year and included a consultation questionnaire.

The parish was particularly anxious to receive as many responses as possible from young people under 25 because the deeds of ownership stipulate that the historic building should be used by young people.

Questions included asking for suggestions in relation to activities which respondents would like to see available in a building used by young people.

The Parish of Morpeth will now begin to fund-raise to restore the building and create a community hub for young people in the town and surrounding area.