LOCATION
St Hilda's Church is situated on the B6317 which runs from Blaydon on Tyne to the east towards Ryton and Crawcrook in the west. Access for cars is very straightforward and the A1 Western Bypass is less than 10 minutes from the site.
The immediate area comprises a mix of leisure, industrial and residential accommodation plus a busy primary school. There are numerous housing estates in and around this location which provide a certain level of captive trade.
DESCRIPTION
As a children's soft play this former Church creates a unique environment with the original features adding to the overall experience for visitors.
St Hilda's church is a Grade II listed detached building that occupies a prominent roadside position at Stella Road, Ryton. The property was originally built in the late 1800s and is constructed in Sandstone.
Within the lower ground floor there is a fully fitted and equipped commercial kitchen together with an office plus stores.
Externally there is a designated private car park plus additional parking spaces directly to the front of the Church to assist with deliveries or for any customers that may require help with access.
Development Potential
The site has been the subject of the following:- 'Request for pre application advice for change of use and conversion of former St Hilda's Church, Stella Road, Ryton'.
The pre application enquiry was received by Gateshead council on 6th October 2023 and responded to on 30th November 2023. A change of use is proposed to residential dwellings (class C3 use) with a number of options offered for consideration. The local authority response highlights the usual material considerations and specific issues relating to the site before any formal application could be considered.
In response, the authority concluded the following: 'There is scope for such a proposal (change of use to Residential) being granted subject to planning permission and listed building consent.' Further information available on request.
Legal Costs
Each party will be responsible for their costs in the transaction/or pay landlord costs.
Rating Liability
According to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) website and the premises has a Rateable Value of £16,000. (£16,750 from 1st April 2026).
Accommodation
Lower Ground Floor
Lower Ground Floor
Kitchen 40 sq.m. (430 sq.ft.)
Office 15 sq.m. (161 sq.ft.)
Ground Floor
Main Soft Play Area 265 sq.m. (2,850 sq.ft.)
Toilet Block 26 sq.m. (280 sq.ft.)
Services
Gas, electricity, water and sewerage is installed and there is gas central heating throughout.
