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.
