Rookhope Primary School, which has been vacant since it closed in August 2024, will be converted into four small business units and a community hub.
According to the approved proposal, the refurbishment will maintain the building’s original stone and steel rail fencing, preserving its historic appearance.
Durham County Council granted planning permission on January 13, subject to several conditions.
These include a restriction on operational hours between 9am and 6pm, the use of reclaimed stone for the new gate pillars, and adherence to ecological safeguards, including measures to protect bats.
The site will see an increase in vehicle parking spaces from six to 26 and a vehicle gate will be constructed using reclaimed stone for its pillars, in line with planning conditions.
Development is supported under local and national policies aimed at reusing vacant sites and supporting rural economies. Proposals ensure the sensitive reuse of the building, a historic non-designated heritage asset.
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Traffic analysis found the proposed access to meet safety standards, with low volumes of vehicles expected.
The loss of a small section of the stone wall for the new access is not considered to harm the village’s visual character.
A bat survey confirmed no significant issues, subject to adherence to the ecological method statement.
The building will be repurposed into four craft or workshop units and a community hub, with unit sizes ranging from 376 to 807 square feet.
External work will include creating a new vehicular gate with reclaimed stone and marking the rear hard-play area for 20 car parking spaces, including one EV charging point.
The project is anticipated to support employment for up to 20 people when fully operational.
Rookhope Primary School was closed due to declining student numbers, financial inefficiency, and costly maintenance needs.