THERE are fresh hopes a new care provider will take on a former nursing home which is back on the market this month.

Hundreds of people spoke out when Durham County Council revealed its plans to close Newtown House in Stanhope in 2013.

But despite campaigners’ efforts, the care home closed in August 2014.

A month later, dozens of well-wishers staged a candlelit vigil to show support for former Newton Aycliffe headteacher Don Robson, who was the last remaining resident of the home.

Since then, there have been numerous bids for the building, including two offers from Weardale county councillor John Shuttleworth. However, these were either unsuccessful or fell through.

Now the building is being advertised for sale again, with the authority inviting offers until Monday.

In the property details, the 2.8-acre site is described as being suitable for a residential care home or residential or commercial redevelopment subject to planning permission.

Weardale county councillor Anita Savory said: “I hope a care home operator will come forward as I would love to see the building return to providing residential care in Weardale. The closure of Newtown House is still fiercely felt within the dale by families who desperately need that provision to care for older relatives.”