AN HISTORIC building is to be redeveloped to provide a one-stop council shop.

The Mechanics Institute in Bridge End, Chester-le-Street, is to be redesigned and re-opened as a point of contact for people wanting help or advice from Chester-le-Street District Council.

Plans have just been approved to demolish outbuildings and extensions to the institute and replace them with a single-storey extension to the main building for extra office space. The building will also be used as a base for the town centre manager.

Other work includes replacing the existing slate roof with a raised roof to give more space within the building.

The plans were approved at Chester-le-Street District Council's planning meeting on Monday.