WORK is underway to create a new nursery building in north Durham.

Shotley Bridge Nursery School, which has been open almost 25 years, is expanding and has moved into new premises.

It is currently in The Old Town Hall in Shotley Bridge, but will be moving to Blackhill, near Consett, and open in time for the new term in September.

The nursery currently employs 17 members of staff but will be looking to employ around 17 more as the nursery expands.

It currently has 42 full time places, but the move will mean it can offer 98.

Work has already begun at the site of old Co-operative building and more recently the former Pimpernel offices opposite St Mary’s Church.

Laura Bowery, joint director, said: “The nursery has been sourcing sites and properties for the past 18 months and after viewing a number of places within the catchment area, decided on the traditional stone built property in Blackhill.

“The building has huge potential and plans are to make it a state-of-the-art facility which perfectly meets the needs of the children.

“Planning includes a hall which can be used by the wider community and the nursery also intends to offer breakfast clubs, after school care and various classes for children on a weekend including movement and music.

“There are also plans for a large, enclosed outdoor play area allowing the children to play outside in the fresh air safely.”