The Tyne & Wear Building Preservation Trust have agreed a long lease of the building from the local council. We are working with a number of local charities and community interest companies who want to use the building. First we need to make the building safe to use: stop the water from pouring in; upgrade electrics; improve security and repair damage caused by anti social behaviour. Then we need to start a ten year repair and maintenance programme to bring the building back into full working order.

What we'll deliver:

• clean the gutters
• replace the broken windows
• paint the woodwork
• improve electrical safety

Why it's a great idea:

The Buddle is a building where there is a great belief in community ownership. People either went to school at or attended shows and exhibitions when it was converted into an Arts Centre and Library in the 1980's. This lovely building has reached a tipping point and if we do not take action quickly then the repairs bill will start to escalate.

Steps to get it done:

• Make electrics safe
• Clean gutters and drains
• paint and treat woodwork
• replace broken glass

People love this building and want to help. There will be opportunities to help clear rubbish, paint walls, prune trees, guide walks, etc But first we need a bit of funding to do the urgent work to make the building safe and allow groups to occupy some of the spaces.