RESTORATION work on two 19th Century park buildings looks likely to be delayed, after planning officers raised concerns over the materials to be used in the revamp.

Gateshead Borough Council has applied for planning permission to refurbish two shelters in Saltwell Park.

But planning officers want the listed buildings returned to their original splendour and have recommended that councillors defer the scheme.

The shelters, on the park's Broadwalk, are thought to date back to 1887.

Officers want to ensure that proper timber finishing will be used.

A decision will be made by the council's development control committee at its meeting on Wednesday, January 7.