THE sale of a Victorian church in South Tyneside has been put on ice for a month.
St Andrew’s Church, which dominates part of Hebburn riverside, was due to be auctioned this week for almost £300,000.
But the church sale was deferred at the last moment, to give more potential buyers a chance to view the property.
Tony Fairs, marketing assistant for estate agent Andrew Craig, of Victoria Road West, Hebburn, which is handling the sale, said: “The decision was made to defer until March 28, because a number of would-be buyers have not seen the church.
“One potential buyer lives outside the country and is keen to view the site, as he is very interested in the property.
“There have been several potential buyers and we want to give more people a chance to inspect the old church.”
The Grade II-listed building in Ellison Street, Hebburn, was constructed in the Gothic style in 1872 by Victorian shipbuilding magnate, Andrew Leslie, of the famous Hawthorn Leslie Shipyard.
With its iconic spire, the church has been part of the landscape for 140 years.
Mr Fairs said a former mental health unit within the church complex would be suitable for a residential development.
Owner South Tyneside Council, facing budget cuts, is keen to sell.
Recent plans by Jarrow Brewery to create a new brewing plant at the old church collapsed because of objections by residents and planning issues.
The guide price for St Andrew’s Church and hall is £299, 950 and the property will be auctioned on March 28 at the Newcastle Marriott Hotel, Gosforth Park, Newcastle.
More details are available from Andrew Craig on 428 1428.
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