The Auckland Project launches consultation to showcase plans for Market Place

Regeneration charity, The Auckland Project (TAP), is inviting the local community to feedback on a proposed redevelopment of the north side site of Bishop Auckland’s Market Place. The work will involve the removal of the existing derelict Queens Head, Postchaise and Monaco buildings, to be replaced with a new 60-bedroom hotel. 42, Market Place, Bishop Auckland, where more detail will be shared about the development. Made possible with £3.1m funding from the Stronger Towns Fund, administered by Durham County Council, and the remainder from The Auckland Project, the development will be part of o

Regeneration charity, The Auckland Project (TAP), is inviting the local community to feedback on a proposed redevelopment of the north side site of Bishop Auckland’s Market Place. The work will involve the removal of the existing derelict Queens Head, Postchaise and Monaco buildings, to be replaced with a new 60-bedroom hotel. Working with Historic England and Durham County Council, TAP is ensuring the designs for the hotel scheme will be sympathetic to Bishop Auckland’s heritage and existing surroundings. As part of Bishop Auckland’s wider investment plan, to bring increased employment opportunities and visitor spend to the town, the hotel has potential to create up to 95 jobs - 65 construction jobs will be available during development, and 30 on-site operational jobs, including career opportunities for graduates of the town’s new Bishop Auckland College hospitality training school, which opened in the historic McIntyre building last year. TAP is hosting a public information drop-in event at No. 42, Market Place, Bishop Auckland, where more detail will be shared about the development. The event is taking place on Thursday 10th April, 3pm – 7pm. Up to date information can also be found on www.bishopaucklandregeneration.com. Made possible with £3.1m funding from the Stronger Towns Fund, administered by Durham County Council, and the remainder from The Auckland Project, the development will be part of ongoing regeneration of Bishop Auckland Market Place and the wider town. It is anticipated the hotel will net an additional £4.7m in hotel visitor spend per annum, while increasing footfall and dwell time in the town centre. David Land, CEO, The Auckland Project, says: “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 that the development will bring economic and social benefits to local residents and business. We encourage people to take a look at the plans.” Bishop Auckland’s increasing investment in attractions and infrastructure is quickly positioning the town as a must-visit destination for heritage and culture in the region, with 1.5 million visitors expected each year from 2029. To keep up to date with developments in Bishop Auckland please visit bishopaucklandregeneration.com.