Work to start on major redevelopment of Richard Stannard House in Blyth Town Centre

Work is getting underway in early 2026 to transform Richard Stannard House into new high quality residential apartments - another step in Blyth’s development as a great place to live, work and invest. 

Located on Bridge Street, 16 high-quality rental apartments will be delivered converting currently underutilised commercial space. This supports the growing demand for modern, high quality and energy-efficient homes just a short walk from key local amenities. This plays a vital role in Blyth’s regeneration driving local demand for leisure, retail and other services.   

Delivered by Advance Northumberland Developments, the properties will be let to market by Advance Northumberland Homes, the housing arm of Advance Northumberland.   

Nine one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom apartments will be created. This includes three fully accessible properties designed to support independent living for residents with additional mobility needs. The upgraded structure includes significant fabric and plant improvements, ensuring low energy costs and high-quality living standards for future tenants.  

Works are set to begin in January and are anticipated to be completed early 2027, initial works are focused on safe site setup and internal works. Local businesses and residents will be updated in advance of works getting underway with disruption kept to a minimum as much as possible. 

During the works, local businesses will continue to be accessible, and a wide range of public car parking will remain available next to Richard Stannard House. However, due to health and safety requirements, some parking bays will be temporarily taken out of use as part of the site compound.

It’s one of a number of projects that focus on delivering good quality homes at priority sites in Blyth town centre as part of the £95m Energising Blyth Programme to improve the town and is funded through UK Government and Advance Northumberland.   

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet Member responsible for regeneration at the County Council, said:

“These new high quality residential apartments will complement the impressive works already delivered this year. The scheme is part of the gateway into town from the Quayside area which already has a fantastic range of businesses nearby and is now complimented by the new Market Pavilion and Market Place and recently completed Bridge Street improvements. 

"Richard Stannard House will be a great place to live, being so close to the town centre for amenities, leisure and work options." 

 John Moran, Head of Homes at Advance Northumberland said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to bring much-needed residential accommodation to the heart of Blyth.  

"The redevelopment of Richard Stannard House will not only provide modern and affordable housing but also help drive footfall in the town centre, supporting local businesses and contributing to the overall vibrancy and economic vitality of the area.

“We are committed to working closely with local residents and businesses throughout the construction period to ensure the project is delivered considerately.” 

 Advance Northumberland is proud to lead this development as part of a wider commitment to improving housing, sustainability, and economic opportunities across the county.