Birtley, Birtley Lane, Masonic Hall

HER Number:
7401

District:
Gateshead

Site Name:
Birtley, Birtley Lane, Masonic Hall

Place:
Birtley

Map Sheet:
NZ25NE

Class:
Recreational

Site Type: Broad:
Meeting Hall

Site Type: Specific:
Freemasons Hall

General Period:
Modern

Specific Period:
C20

Form of Evidence:
Extant Building

Description:
The design of the building is defensive and forbidding – giving a fortress-like military impression reminiscent of the ominous political climate of the time when it was built. As such it is very distinctive and makes an important contribution to the varied patchwork of architecture and spaces that together create the special character of the Birtley Conservation Area. The building is a 2 storey masonic hall with Art Deco influences. It is constructed in red brick with artstone detailing. The roof is slated and there are several brick chimneys with chamfered bases and cornice detail to the tops. The windows have been replaced with plastic ones – largely retaining their regularity to the front elevation, but with rather haphazard fenestration to the sides. To the principal (eastern) elevation is a grand, keep-like single-storey entrance with strong castellation and protruding door surround with a date plaque above. This is echoed to the 1st floor of the main building behind in a geometric stepped plaque directly above. There is quite a brutal addition to the northern end. An attractive stone boundary wall remains, which has historic significance. Dates 1936 LOCAL LIST

Easting:
2737

Northing:
5571

Grid Reference:
NZ27375571

Lats/Lons:

Sources:
Gateshead Council Local List