Hopes for former Helme Park Hall Hotel in Tow Law, Consett

The land at Helme Park Hall Hotel, at Fir Tree, Tow Law, near Bishop Auckland, might date back to 1643 as its former name Elm Park Hall - but in its most recent guise, it has been in the region since 1987.

But it might now have another purpose entirely, with the land that sites the venue up for sale for £950,000.

The windows put through at Helme Park Hall Hotel (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) The 1.8-acre land, which has permission for nine 'executive' homes, offers clear views over Wear Valley and is available for immediate development, according to the estate agent marketing it.

The planning permission, which has already been granted, allows for the construction of nine new homes with a total floor space of 2,321 sqm.

The potential gross development value (GDV) is estimated to be between £4.6m and £5.4m.

While the land offers a new lifeline for the land, Helme Park Hall Hotel currently sits empty and derelict - with holes in the front windows and brickwork. 

The exterior of Helme Park Hall Hotel (Image: BRADLEY HALL) As part of the sale of the land, it's expected that the venue will be levelled and nine properties will replace it.

The land is just over 1.5 miles from Tow Law, known for its attractive stone terrace houses.

The town also boasts a co-operative supermarket, a doctor's surgery, a vet, several bakeries and cafes, and the Newmarket country pub.

Tow Law is situated just over 10 miles to the south of Consett, five miles to the north west of Crook, and seven miles north west of Bishop Auckland.

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The site measures approximately 1.882 acres (7616.18sqm) with a perimeter of roughly 395.48m.

The estate agent, Keith Pattinson, advises that detailed plans and all reports are available to qualified purchasers.

Interested parties are advised to contact the estate agent directly for further information or to arrange a viewing.

What's the history of Helme Park Hall?

Helme Park Hall Hotel, originally Elm Park Hall, lies on the edge of Fir Tree, a village near Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

Dating back to 1643, the hall has had varied functions.

During WWII, it was home to Colonel Stobart, Commandant of Harperley Hall POW Camp, before becoming the Regional Headquarters for the Forestry Commission.

In 1987, it transformed into a hotel, popular for functions, parties, and excellent food.

However, the hotel closed abruptly in 2017 after a £1,000,000 listing.