Listed building could become SEN school

A historic Grade II listed building could become a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school after it is sold.

Peterlee Town Council announced in September it had put Shotton Hall, near Peterlee, County Durham, on the market.

The council has now confirmed it is in a pre-contract agreement with a bidder and the building, now used for council meetings, would become a school, subject to planning permission.

"The pre-contract agreement marks a key milestone in securing the future of Shotton Hall and ensuring it continues to benefit the residents of Peterlee," it said.

Shotton Hall was built in 1760 as a family home and currently hosts events as well as meetings.

It had to be put on the market after a review found the council could not keep ownership of the building "without major investment", which it said it could not afford.

Ian Hall, town clerk of the council, said: "We are excited to take this important step forward for Shotton Hall.

"The transformation of the site into an SEN school will address a growing need for specialised educational facilities in the area, ensuring children with additional needs have access to the support they require to thrive."

An alternative venue for council meetings is yet to be confirmed.

Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].