Readers of the Northern Echo can’t have failed to notice the exciting news that one of the region’s hottest properties is coming to County Durham. And what makes it even better is that this truly modern venture is opening not just one of its venues here but two.

Of course, we’re talking about leading leisure provider STACK which in recent months has secured planning permission to bring its unique blend of food, drink and entertainment to both Bishop Auckland and Durham City.

Confirmation that the company wants to come to County Durham and clearly sees it as a viable market is testament to the ongoing efforts of Durham County Council to create vibrant communities.  Communities that offer well paid jobs for residents that allow them to spend money in local leisure facilities that are also capable of attracting visitors from afar, as well as other businesses.

Indeed, this work has played a direct role in bringing STACK to Bishop Auckland. The county council, armed with almost £20m of Future High Streets (FHS) funding it secured from government specifically for the town, last year launched a procurement exercise to seek a development partner for a key site in the heart of the community that has been sitting unused.

Following this competitive exercise, Danieli Group - the company behind STACK - was chosen to redevelop that Newgate Street site, in what represents a key project within the FHS funding programme.

Although the scheme will be housed in a purpose-built building rather than shipping containers, the design will include elements of STACK’s signature look.

STACK Bishop Auckland will bring together a mix of local independent street food traders, special events and a daily programme of live entertainment.

Over in Durham, STACK is providing a key player in the regeneration of Silver Street by transforming the city’s former Marks and Spencer store.

The development promises to deliver a coffee shop, food kiosks, bars, roof terrace and space for social, cultural and community events, including live music events, dog shows, quizzes and children’s events.

The plan also includes a games room offering a range of interactive gaming experiences including shuffleboard and darts using the latest technology.

Crucially, both sites will provide jobs – 120 full and part time at Bishop Auckland and 176 at Durham.

They will also become exciting venues in the heart of each community at which people from both Bishop Auckland and Durham, and further afield, will want to spend time enjoying themselves with friends.

With spending time comes spending money, with knock-on effects for the local economy of each community, in particular, at night.

Further economic benefits stand to come with the presence of STACK helping to attract other businesses to County Durham, persuaded by its confidence in trading here and, all things being well, the success the two venues enjoy once open.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “As a council laser-focused on securing growth and prosperity for our county, we are delighted to welcome this exciting investment. The future of our high streets is a key priority and we look forward to the opportunities brought about by the STACK developments.” 

Roll on their openings from next year.