MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM ACROSS PARKLANDS

:: Fire destroys St Aidan's community centre

St Aidan's Community Centre has been badly damaged after a fire broke out. Work to bring the building back to full use has started. Other community facilities have stepped in to help provide alternative venues - we are very grateful for their support.

:: Highways work to be carried out

More highway works are to be carried out across the ward. The Great North Road roundabout at Polwarth Drive is to be resurfaced in the autumn.

:: Residents consulted over refuge

Local residents are being consulted over moving the new refuge on Broadway West closer to Grasmere Place than Kielder Way.

:: Footpath to be installed

A footpath across the bridge on Brunton Lane over the A1 will be installed soon.

:: Warkworth Woods adoption close

The adoption of Warkworth Woods by the city council is now in its final stages after agreement on the financial aspects.

Council officers are working closely with the Great Park Consortium and the Melbury and Warkworth Woods Residents' Association to

address delays to the completion of highways, drainage and lighting,

Councillor David Down says: "Residents have understandably been frustrated by some of the delays and we want this work completed as soon as possible."

:: Car park work on hold

Work to extend the car park of the BT Telephone Exchange on Brunton Lane has been put on hold. However, a scheme for landscaping is due to be submitted for planning approval. Residents will be fully consulted.

:: New library opening hours

The opening hours of Gosforth Library are to shorten following the opening of the new Central Library. Opening hours will revert in June to 9am to 8pm Monday and Thursday, 9am to 5pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. On Sunday, the library will be open 10am to 2pm.

:: Theatre safe

The historic Jubilee Theatre and the First Act Theatre Group for young people are now safe from closure following discussions with St Nicholas Hospital management.