Work has started this week to restore The Shambles, a prominent grade II* listed building, situated in the heart of the Hexham Conservation Area. 

Built as a covered market by Sir Walter Blackett in 1766, this historically important feature, now owned by Northumberland County Council, is still used by market stall holders throughout the week. 

It is however in a poor state of repair with urgent work needed to the timber beams, timber and stone columns, roof and flooring and the electrics within the structure. 

The council has agreed to invest in a restoration scheme using specialist heritage building contractors to bring the building back to its former glory. 

The work will be completed in two phases. Phase 1 will entail the restoration and improvements to the building while Phase 2 will involve bringing the adjacent parking area up to modern standards to protect the Shambles in the future. 
 

The work is timed to be delivered as quickly and seamlessly as possible avoiding the Autumn and Winter events programme which is important to the town. 

The surrounding area and parking around the rest of Market Place will still be open for business as usual with access maintained for local shops and services. 

The markets will continue to operate on the other side of the road outside the Abbey and the Moot Hall. 

Northumberland County Councillor and Deputy Leader, Richard Wearmouth said:  

“The Shambles is one of Hexham’s most historic buildings so it is fantastic that work is starting to preserve and restore it for generations to come. 

“All stakeholders have been kept up to date about the work and access to all local businesses will be maintained while the work is taking place, including the markets which will continue to operate nearby.  I’d like to thank everyone locally for their support while we undertake the works.” 

For public safety reasons and to provide access for works, The Shambles building and adjacent car park will be closed for the duration of the work from Tuesday 27th May through to an expected completion in Autumn 2025. 

Northumberland County Councillor Cllr Trevor Cessford, Member for Hexham Central and Acomb Ward said: 

“I’m really pleased to see this specialist work getting underway.  The county council recognises the importance of this ancient and iconic building to the town and I’m looking forward to it being back to its very best  later this year.   In the meantime I encourage everyone to keep supporting our town centre and shop local using all the local businesses and markets which are continuing to operate.” 

The refurbishment of The Shambles adds to the recently completed £3.4m Hexham High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ). The HSHAZ scheme was delivered by Northumberland County Council in partnership with Historic England to restore the historic heart of the town and which resulted in the town’s Conservation Area being removed from the ‘at’ risk’ register.