Rural revival as business hub begins to take shape

A former County Durham school is being repurposed into a business hub.

Business Durham, the business support service for Durham County Council, has begun transforming the former Rookhope Primary School into the Rookhope Business Centre, which will provide five office and workspace units for local businesses.

Set to open this summer, the centre will also feature two community rooms, hot desking facilities, a kitchen and a potential library or book swap area for residents.

Managed by Business Durham, the hub could generate up to 20 jobs. 

Councillor Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We’re pleased to have started work to create a business hub for Rookhope and the wider Durham Dales, ensuring the former school building continues to be utilised in a way that benefits the community. 

“With a shortage of commercial units across the county, this development will not only support up to five businesses but also create valuable employment in the area.”

The hub will be overseen by Kathryn Lowe-Oliver and Nicky Downey, supervisors at the Dales Centre.

For Kathryn, the project is especially meaningful – both she and her son attended the school, while her mother worked there as secretary for 30 years.

Councillor John Shuttleworth, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for rural communities, community safety and highways, added: “Kathryn and Nicky already play an important role in supporting the Dales community. 

“And that established link will help new and existing rural businesses gain the right support to grow and develop.”

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