Go-ahead given for repair work to blaze-hit hall

UNIVERSITY bosses have been given the green light to repair a fire-ravaged former halls of residence two and a half years after a blaze ripped through the historic building.

- DANIEL HOLLAND

Henderson Old Hall, in High Heaton, Newcastle, was the scene of a devastating fire in June 2023 that completely destroyed its roof and left the Grade II-listed site in ruins.

But a first phase of restoration works to begin returning the disused Newcastle University halls to their former state have now been approved.

Newcastle City Council granted permission this week for a series of repairs - including the reinstatement of its roof, replacing windows and dealing with severe water damage suffered during the firefighting efforts.

Work is expected to start early in 2026 and last for up to 14 months, while longer-term options to bring Henderson Old Hall back into use are still being weighed up.