WORK has begun on an environmentally-friendly office block which developers hope will increase job opportunities in a rural area.

Durham County Council and Wear Valley District Council have commissioned architects Dewjo to build 14 units on Low Willington Industrial Estate as part of a £2.2m project.

Each single-storey unit has been designed to address sustainable principles, including rainwater harvesting and grey water recycling, a process where water is pumped back into the system for re-use.

The buildings are designed around a courtyard and face south-westerly to capture maximum sunlight, as well as screening it from winter winds.

Sustainable materials are being used in the construction, including cedar boarding.

Native trees are being planted to enhance the natural habitat, and also provide shade during summer months and create a natural barrier for noise.

Steve Baker, from Dewjo, said: "With this particular project, we aimed to create a sustainable design which embraces the principles of green design while providing a pleasant working environment.

"Dewjo is a company very much in keeping with the principles and values of sustainable development and we hope to see more offices of this design in the future."

Stewart Watkins, of Durham County Council's business support arm, County Durham Development Company, said: "The units at Low Willington will be a valuable addition to the portfolio of business accommodation on offer in County Durham.

"Providing high-quality, sustainable workspace in rural areas is identified as a key task in the Regional Economic Strategy.

"In a predominantly rural county like Durham, it is vital to ensure that the right infrastructure is in place to allow us to continue to create employment opportunities."

Bob Hope, strategic director of environment and regeneration at Wear Valley District Council, said: "The scheme is a good example of our approach to regeneration.

"Working with partners, we are embracing new design principles of sustainability which will help to achieve our long-term vision of being carbon neutral by 2030."

Construction of the offices is due for completion in September.