A HISTORIC town hall in the North-East is up for sale.

The civic structure in Gateshead is part of a unique collection of buildings in the town centre being sold by the local authority.

The municipal heart of Gateshead for some 120 years, the Victorian grade two listed building previously housed offices, the council’s main debating chamber, a magistrates’ court complete with cell block, a police station and police house.

The council relocated to the new Civic Centre in 1987.

Gateshead Council leader Councillor Martin Gannon said: “This is truly an impressive site, containing some of Gateshead’s finest buildings and a major asset, not just to our town centre but to the historic culture of the region.

“The word unique is often over used but not in this instance.

“This site has huge potential mixing old and new, and we are confident a visionary developer will bring new life to this once bustling and historic area, creating new jobs, visitors and opportunities for local people.”

The site is close to the bridges over the River Tyne and offers a wide range of development opportunities including retail, office, hotel, leisure and residential uses.

Potential developers have until June 26 to make an offer for the site.

For more information call Cushman and Wakefield on 0191-223-5717.