If you’ve visited Jesmond Dene recently you may have noticed that we have put up fencing around the Banqueting Hall and the informal footpath around it. This beautiful building, built for Sir William Armstrong, is Grade II Listed, but has been in a poor state of repair for a number of years, and to protect both the building and our park users we have taken the decision to fence off the structure for the time being.
Our long-term aims for the building include developing plans in consultation with the local community, which will reflect Lord Armstrong’s legacy. However, we know that this will require a major funding campaign, and an extensive works programme. In the interim it is important to stabilise the building and carry out essential emergency repairs. We have commissioned an updated Condition Survey for the building to start this process. Our conservation architects have carried out external inspections already and we are continuing to negotiate with our current tenants to gain access for the necessary internal review.
If you’re interested in getting involved in conversations about our long-term plans for the building, we will be consulting with our park users through Urban Green Park Action. You can sign up to take part at: https://urbangreennewcastle.org/get-involved/urban-green-park-action