PLANS are being made to open Durham’s historic town hall as a tourist attraction to shed light on the city’s heritage and some of its colourful characters.

The 17th century Durham Market Place is currently only open for ad hoc tours and for special occasions.

However, Durham County Council is now planning to open the town hall on a more regular schedule.

Visitors will be able to find out more about the civic role that the building has played, the historic importance of its community, the Freemen, Mayor and Mayors Bodyguard and its continued use.

Su Lewis, projects and transitions manager at Durham County Council, said: “We plan to give visitors greater access to Durham Town Hall and, subject to planning permission, banners will be displayed outside to promote the venue and attract visitors.

“Those coming to the building on special visitor days will be able to learn all about the Mayor’s bodyguard and the Freeman’s Guild, along with interesting facts about the town hall, including its former use as a criminal court.

“Durham Town Hall also houses a number of artworks and tells the story of the ‘Little Count’, a colourful character in Durham’s history, but who remains largely unknown.

“We want to share the treasures and stories connected to this fascinating building, and are working with the Freeman and the Bodyguard to shape the details. We hope to announce an opening date soon.”

The council is planning to make a number of changes to the building to improve it as a visitor attraction.

A planning application has been made to put up new hanging banners outside the building, as well as a digital information screen which would go in the window of the reception area and information panels which would be placed throughout the building to explain the building’s history.

Items on display will include the mayor’s ceremonial swords and mace, 15 halberds – a combined spear and battleaxe – currently on display in the guildhall and Mayoral Bodyguard ceremonial robes.

There are also plans for a crime and punishment exhibition to tell the story of the building’s former use as a court room and prison.

The town hall includes the guildhall, built in 1665, the adjoining mayor’s chamber and the Victorian main hall.

It’s historical features include a Jacobean chimney piece and over mantel, transferred from the former Red Lion Inn, which is now part of Hatfield College, in North Bailey, as well as a medieval head-carved stone corbel, which could have survived from the 1356 guildhall on the site.