A VISION to restore the fire-damaged former school of Hollywood legend Stan Laurel has been scrutinised by the public this week.

In January, the South Durham Enterprise Agency and Durham County Council unveiled a £2m plan to transform the former King James Grammar School building into offices for artisan businesses.

The Grade II listed building was extensively damaged in an arson attack in 2007 and since then it has been surrounded by scaffolding, leading many to describe the once grand school as an eyesore.

This week, a series of public consultations are taking place to allow the public to share their views.

In Bishop Auckland Town Hall yesterday (Tuesday, May 19), Penny Watson, of the South Durham Enterprise Agency, said: “We’ve had a steady flow of people throughout the day and the comments have been very positive.”

A further drop in session will be held in the same venue tomorrow (Thursday) from 10am to noon and from 4pm to 6pm.

The team would also love to hear from anyone with knowledge of the building’s heritage.

Contact penny@theenterpriseagency.co.uk or 01388-771511 or alan.hind@durham.gov.uk