County Durham businesses secure funding to support rural regeneration

Two rural businesses have secured financial support as part of an initiative to regenerate towns and villages across County Durham.

Mickleton Service Station and Blacksmiths Arms, both near Barnard Castle, have both received funding through Durham County Council’s Targeted Business Improvement scheme.

The funding has allowed the owners of Mickleton Service Station to commence a refurbishment programme, as well as grow the retail area of their business.

Meanwhile, Blacksmiths Arms has undergone a full revamp and created a new food offer as a result of the funding.

Cllr Carl Marshall, cabinet member for economic regeneration at Durham County Council, commented: “By providing this support, we can not only help businesses to prosper but can improve the towns and villages in which they are based.

“This could be by enhancing the appearance of rundown buildings or by bringing empty properties back into use as premises for new enterprises.

“Also, supporting businesses to expand can create additional jobs and training opportunities, which also benefits the wider community.”