FIVE derelict houses in Bishop Auckland have been bought up by a London-based investment company and refurbished as part of a £250,000 property development scheme.

The large four-bedroom brick-built detached homes in Dene Valley View, Gurney Valley were vacant for two years and had fallen into a state of disrepair before being bought at auction last autumn by London and City Group, a real estate investment company based in the capital.

The new owners organised for the Stockton office of Sanderson Weatherall to manage the refurbishment, including all architectural work.

The properties, which have either already sold or are under offer, have been modernised to include new kitchens and dining rooms along with bigger lounges and new light fittings. They have also been re-turfed, tarmacked and had fencing added.

Simon Hobbs, a director with London and City Group, said: “We’re very happy with the scheme and quality of project Sanderson Weatherall has delivered.The firm’s interdisciplinary approach made the project run smoothly and allowed works to be completed on time and within our budget.”

David Fairley, the Sanderson Weatherall partner who managed the refurbishment, said: “Several departments worked together to deliver the successful scheme and it is fantastic to see these properties reserved so quickly.”