AN architectural firm is poised for further expansion.

Niven and Niven, in Darlington, has made significant investment in new staff, technology and equipment, which in turn has led to it having record order books.

New directors Simon Crowe and Ian Scott, the architects who now head the business alongside fellow director Meg Niven, were appointed to the firm following the death from cancer of Robert Niven last August.

Mr Niven and his brother founded the firm in 1984.

At its offices in Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, the company employs 15 staff in an operation offering full pre-contract and post-contract architectural services, project management and development planning.

Last year, the firm successfully bid to be part of Durham County Council's Strategic Alliance, a capital project partnership with an expected turnover estimated at £29m.