Old Shire Hall, previously the headquarters of Durham University could be converted into a 70-bedroom boutique hotel under plans just published. Local businessman Shaun Crawley has bought the Grade II-listed building and aims to convert it into a 40-bedroom hotel and a 30- room apartotel with a restaurant, bar, leisure and conference facilities.
Old Shire Hall is located in the centre of Durham. It was built in 1896 as the headquarters for Durham County Council. Its most recent occupants, Durham University, moved out of the building two years ago since when the building has been unoccupied.

A planning application for Old Shire Hall’s conversion is expected to be submitted later this month.