The council is continuing to work with contractors after a building in Blyth town centre was left in a dangerous condition by Storm Arwen. 
 

On Tuesday, existing fencing was extended in and around the Marketplace to safeguard the public from a building structure that is in risk of collapse, due to increased concerns from Storm Barra, pending building remedial work being carried out. 
 

A number of businesses inside the cordon were temporarily closed on Tuesday for safety reasons but following removal of part of the fencing, they have since re-opened. 
 

Within the current cordon, a total of seven businesses remain closed, including two businesses within the dangerous structure, which will remain closed for the near future. 
 

Discussions are ongoing concerning the nature of the proposed works to make the building safe, which subject to there being no risk to the public or staff, may enable some or all of the remaining shops to re-open.   
 

The Keel Row shopping centre remains closed (Thursday, Dec 9), while they await further advice from a structural engineer. 
 

Phil Soderquest, Head Housing and Public Protection at the council, said: “We know the cordon and the work is an inconvenience for residents and businesses but the area has to be made safe. 
 

“There is still a real risk of falling debris or the building collapsing so we have to have this safety zone, which can also be used as a compound for the contractors carrying out works to remove the roof structure and gable ends to make the building safe.  
 

“We are prepared to re-position the cordon and have already done so to facilitate access to the Keel Row and pedestrian access down one side of Bridge Street, but any further changes can only be considered once the demolition contractor and structural engineer have agreed a safe method of working and any potential risk arising from those activities to nearby shops. 
 

“We’ve also staff in the area today (Thurs 9th Dec) clearing up the debris caused by the storm, including a sweeper in the rear lanes around the affected areas and workers giving the place a general tidy-up, where safe to do so. 
 

“We thank everyone for their understanding at this time and want to reassure people that for most traders in the town it should be business as usual.”