WORK to turn a former gentlemen’s club into luxury flats is nearing completion.

An eighteenth century building in Old Elvet, Durham, which has hosted aristocrats, business leaders and even the Queen, is being converted following its closure as the Durham County Club in 2016.

The FiftyTwo Group is carrying out the £1.5m conversion, which is due to be completed in March.

Durham-born Fergus Bell, and his business partner Daniel Gibson, are leading the project.

Mr Bell, who lives in Old Elvet, said: “I had walked past the building for years and I could see its clear potential. So when the opportunity came to acquire and redevelop it we jumped at the chance. With all the investment currently taking place around Durham, there couldn’t be a better time for a high quality, luxury development like this to be taking place in a building with such incredible history.”

The one and two bedroomed flats will retain many of the building’s original features, including its grand staircase.

Mr Gibson said: “We believe 52 Old Elvet will have massive appeal, not just because of its fantastic location but because of it offering something that few developments can – modern living in a truly unique setting.”