What happened at the Old Town Hall in Gateshead?

Trespassers were found inside the vacant Old Town Hall, leading to concerns about its security and condition.

Who is responsible for the security of the Old Town Hall?

The leaseholder, Kinetic Properties, is responsible for the security of the Old Town Hall and Library.

What are the future plans for Gateshead's Old Town Hall?

Capital&Centric has an agreement to purchase the building and plans to convert it into flats.

Home / Crime and Justice / Developers Urge Security for Vacant Old Town Hall

Developers Urge Security for Vacant Old Town Hall

22 Jan

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Summary

Trespassers found inside vacant Old Town Hall, prompting security concerns.
Future developers call on current owners to enhance building protection measures.
The historic Grade II listed building has been in disrepair for years.

Developers Urge Security for Vacant Old Town Hall

Trespassers were found inside the Old Town Hall in Gateshead, prompting calls for enhanced security from developers who intend to restore the property. The building, a Grade II listed structure on West Street, has been vacant for more than a decade and is reportedly in a state of disrepair, marked by graffiti and damaged windows.

Capital&Centric, a company with an agreement to purchase the building, expressed disappointment over the vandalism. Co-founder Tim Heatley urged the current leaseholder, Kinetic Properties, to implement measures to prevent further unauthorized access.

Gateshead Council was informed by police on Sunday, January 19, 2026, about the trespassers. The council immediately contacted the leaseholders, who have since secured the site by boarding up windows. While the council acknowledged its role in ensuring the historic buildings' safety, it clarified that the leaseholder is responsible for security.