Work is underway to demolish the former Territorial Army Drill Hall on Prudhoe's Swalwell Close and is expected to last for the next eight weeks. 
 

Responsibility has fallen to Northumberland County Council to carry out demolition work as far as legal powers permit after the building became dangerous and action was needed to obviate the danger. 
 

On completion of demolition, a new fence will be put around the site to tie in with the existing fence. 
 

Northumberland County Council Cabinet member with the portfolio for looking after our Communities Cllr Gordon Stewart said: “I fully welcome these long-awaited works to knock down this dangerous structure.  
 

“I want to thank residents for their patience whilst we have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure the safety and future of this site. 
 

“We have a responsibility to protect our local communities and I would also like to thank the Council’s Public Protection’s Building Control Officers for holding those responsible to account. 
 

“The Council will endeavor to carry out the works in a safe and timely manner with as little disruption to the public as is possible.” 
 

Emergency powers under s78 of the Building Act 1984 were enforced after an inspection from the council’s Public Protection’s Building Control service found dangerous sections of the building which required immediate action. 
 

A successful application was made to Magistrates Court in accordance with section 77 of the Building Act 1984, following which, the Council obtained an Order against the owner, who was required to execute works to obviate the danger from the building or demolish the building or any dangerous part of it. The owner failed to carry out the work within the given timeframe.