1. Berwick Key issues in Berwick:
Condition of Council offices; refurbishment costs prohibitive.
Too much surplus office space.
Adult Learning Service building at Palace Street East needs to close urgently due to condition.
Main actions in Berwick
Remodel Walkergate Library to incorporate Visitor Information, Customer Information, local history studies and classrooms which can be used for Adult Learning and Northumberland College.
Refurbish Wallace Green (Planning building) for office space; dispose of other surplus buildings.
Over next 2 – 3 years develop The Maltings and the Cowes building to accommodate customer-facing services, including office facilities, a new wedding venue, and gallery/local history space. Adult learning and FE courses to remain and expand at Walkergate building.
Benefits to Berwick
New cultural hub in the town centre, including better access to historic collections.
Better access to more Council services in single location.
New learning centre in town centre including adult learning and FE courses.
Development of a new wedding venue.
March 2014