North Shields-based heritage contractor Classic Masonry has secured a £450,000 contract to carry out specialist masonry repairs as part of the restoration of the Grade II* listed Keelmen's Hospital in Newcastle.

Working for main contractor BRIMS Construction, the company will deliver the external brickwork and chimney repairs using a conservation-led approach that prioritises the retention of historic fabric. The works include repairing original masonry, stitching and stabilising deteriorated brickwork, salvaging and reusing materials from the site, and repointing with traditional hot lime mortars selected for their compatibility with the historic structure.

The appointment follows a series of significant heritage commissions for the company and reflects continuing investment in the repair of historic masonry across the UK.

Built in 1701 as an almshouse for the Tyne keelmen, Keelmen's Hospital is one of Newcastle's earliest surviving brick buildings and the last remaining structure directly associated with the city's historic keelmen community. After serving a variety of uses, including student accommodation, the building has stood vacant since 2009 and is currently included on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register.

The wider £4.6 million regeneration scheme, led by Tyne + Wear Building Preservation Trust in partnership with Newcastle City Council, will transform the building into 20 affordable homes while preserving key historic features, including its clock tower and turret. Funding has been provided by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic England and Newcastle City Council.

Classic Masonry has previously worked on a number of prominent conservation projects across the North East, including Fenwick Newcastle, St Mary's Cathedral, Morpeth Railway Station, Newcastle Civic Centre, Hylton Castle and the Union Chain Bridge.

Managing director Mike Moody said: "Keelmen's Hospital is an important part of Newcastle's heritage and we are proud to have been appointed. This is exactly the kind of historic, conservation-led work that sits at the heart of what we do.

"We would also like to thank BRIMS Construction for the opportunity to be involved in such a significant scheme. The work being delivered on site is a strong example of sensitive, high-quality restoration. Our specialist masonry package will be key to ensuring the building's historic fabric is carefully preserved for future generations."