A Grade II listed underground structure dating back more than 200 years is set to get a new lease of life as a live music venue. The Bank Hill Ice House in Berwick was built in the 1790s to support the local salmon fishing industry.
According to the Berwick Upon Tweed Preservation Trust, the ice house was used for packing fish, particularly salmon, in crates to be transported to London. In World War Two, it was designated as a makeshift air raid shelter.
New Owners Granted Licence
Now, new owner Deborah Serafini-Fracassini and her husband Camillo have been granted a licence to hold live music events at the site. It follows successful trial events under a temporary licence during Berwick Fringe.
While there was significant support for the proposals among local residents, there was significant opposition from nearby neighbours. The two sides clashed at a licensing hearing at Northumberland County Council's headquarters at County Hall in Morpeth on Thursday.
Community Reaction and Concerns
Speaking at the event, Mr Serafini-Fracassini said: "Our intention is to bring an important space into public use as a dedicated live music venue for local and national audiences. It was dilapidated when we bought it and is now a living, breathing cultural space that can be appreciated for its historical significance."
"The Ice House and the Custom House belong to the people of Berwick. The Ice house is an important part of the town's heritage that should be allowed to be enjoyed, not shut away and falling into disrepair."
Extensive sound-proofing has been installed on top of the existing stone walls, which are around 75cm thick. Following the two events, which were attended by around 160 people in total, there were no noise complaints.
Licence Granted Despite Objections
The venue is set to operate as a bring your own bottle-style venue with a small corkage fee to cover costs. Anyone in an intoxicated state will be turned away.
Mr Serafini-Fracassini added: "The local community has overwhelmingly voiced its support for the venue. It's a unique music venue. There are clear cultural and economic benefits from giving the town its only dedicated music venue."
According to the county council, there were 20 representations received in support of the application alongside seven objections. Some objectors attended the hearing to voice their concerns.
Sarah Jamieson said: "I have lived in Berwick all my life and own holiday cottages by the Quayside Ice House. During the Berwick Fringe, guests staying with us went to Edinburgh and sought alternative accommodation. This is a historic residential area."
Sophie Armstrong added: "The Ice House is a historic marvel - it should be open to the public. It's a thing of beauty. What is indisputable is that using this 18th century building for live music will create a public nuisance. I didn't buy my house to live next to a music venue."
Despite the concerns, the panel agreed to grant the licence in full.
