The Auckland Project unveils hotel plans

Plans have been unveiled to redevelop the north side of Bishop Auckland’s Market Place with a 60-bedroom hotel. 

Led by regeneration charity The Auckland Project (TAP), bosses say the scheme will replace the derelict Queens Head, Postchaise and Monaco buildings, creating up to 95 jobs, including 65 construction positions and 30 operational roles.

They add the development will create career opportunities for graduates of the town’s new Bishop Auckland College hospitality training school, which opened in the historic McIntyre building last year.

Working closely with Historic England and Durham County Council, TAP will ensure the designs will blend with the town’s heritage. 

The project, part of Bishop Auckland’s wider regeneration and supported by £3.1 million from the Stronger Towns Fund, is expected to generate £4.7 million in hotel visitor spend annually, boosting the local economy and increasing footfall in the town centre.

David Land, chief executive of The Auckland Project, said: “We believe the proposed scheme is the best use of space in the town.  

“Through careful planning with organisations such as Durham County Council and Historic England, we are confident the development will bring economic and social benefits to local residents and businesses. 

“We encourage people to take a look at the plans.”

TAP is hosting a public information drop-in event at No. 42 Market Place, Bishop Auckland, on April 10 for local residents to learn more about the project.

See here for further details. 

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