Bryson’s Animal Shelter in Gateshead, which has been rehoming animals for almost 80 years, is urgently seeking £250,000 to demolish and rebuild its kennel block, which is no longer fit for purpose. The shelter, founded in 1947 by Bill and Marion Bryson, has closed the six-kennel block due to a leaky roof and inadequate heating, a decision made reluctantly given long waiting lists for animal intake.
Shelter’s Dilemma: Refurbishment Turns Into Full Rebuild
Centre manager Tracy Holmes explained that the kennel block, used for decades, had become shabby and unsuitable. The shelter had previously completed three refurbishment projects with the same local building company, including stables, a new cattery in 2024, and new isolation kennels in 2025. However, damage and the block’s positioning made a simple refurbishment impossible. “It’s now looking very shabby and no longer fit for purpose,” Holmes said. “It is frustrating but the animals deserve the best possible accommodation.”
The only viable solution is a complete demolition and rebuild, costing £250,000—far more than initially hoped. The shelter’s annual spending averages £450,000, covering vet bills, building maintenance, and daily animal care, leaving little room for such a large project. “It’s very challenging as a small charity,” Holmes added.
Fundraising Efforts Underway
The shelter has launched a Go Fund Me campaign with a target of £5,500, of which £1,190 has been raised so far. The charity is also organizing various fundraisers to bridge the gap. Holmes emphasized the urgency, noting that the kennel closure has increased pressure on other facilities.
Bryson’s Animal Shelter originally provided sanctuary for retired and ill-treated ponies before expanding to cats, dogs, and smaller animals. Bill Bryson purchased Barrington School, the current site, to house the growing number of animals.
Impact on Animal Rehoming
Despite the challenges, the shelter’s 10 staff members have rehomed 141 cats and 61 dogs this year alone. As the shelter approaches its 80th anniversary in 2027, the team hopes the kennel rebuild will be well underway. “It’s not their fault they’re with us, so we want to give them the best accommodation while they’re with us to reduce their stress levels and keep them as happy and comfortable as they can be,” Holmes said. “We want to be here for the next 80 years.”
The shelter is appealing to the public for donations and support to ensure the kennel rebuild can proceed, allowing them to continue their mission of caring for animals in need.
