Plans for the next phase of Bishop Auckland’s Market Place redevelopment have been revealed, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Local developer 11 Arches, the organisation behind the popular Kynren site, is seeking planning permission to convert Grade II-listed office space into flats.
It is hoped the conversion into residential apartments would secure a viable long-term use for the property.
Plans submitted to Durham County Council detail how the property could be converted into five one-bedroom units and two two-bedroom units.
The building has been vacant since 2018, resulting in gradual deterioration.
A statement from 11 Arches adds: “The proposal delivers a sensitive conversion of a vacant building within a sustainable town centre location.
“The scheme preserves the character of the building, introduces minimal external change and provides a viable long-term use contributing positively to the vitality of Bishop Auckland.”
The latest application comes as work is underway on the new 59-bed Northside Hotel in the Market Place. It is being built where the derelict Queens Head, Postchaise and Monaco buildings once stood, with all three brought down late last year.
The hotel is expected to create 95 jobs and includes a bar, restaurant and parking spaces. The development is backed by more than £3 million investment as part of wider regeneration efforts across the town, including upgrades to Newgate Street and the Kingsway Square project.
Meanwhile, the Auckland Project says it wants to help shape a vibrant visitor destination and boost ambitions for 1.5 million visitors a year by 2029.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
