AN environmentally friendly office and industrial complex which could eventually create as many as 60 jobs has opened.

Two 5,000sq ft terraces of workshops and two large office units have been completed at the Harmire Enterprise Park, Barnard Castle, each incorporating the latest energy-efficient construction techniques.

Regional development agency One NorthEast has developed the £1.4m scheme, in collaboration with Teesdale District Council.

The complex was built by Mowlem and supported by funding from the European Regional Development Fund.

Photovoltaic panels in the roof convert solar energy into electricity for the buildings, rainwater is recycled for use in toilets and other energy efficient techniques have been employed throughout the construction.

Cycle sheds have been provided for each building to encourage environmentally friendly travel to work.

Phil Hughes, board member for One NorthEast, said: "These state-of-the-art units will be a wonderful base for any smaller company that wants to run a business that literally won't cost the earth.

"Situated near to the centre of Barnard Castle, Harmire has excellent transport links and also enjoys the scenic backdrop of the Pennines - a fitting location for such an environmentally-friendly operation."

Tony Seaman, retiring director of development services at Teesdale District Council, opened the site as his last duty after seeing the work start last year.

He said: "There is a definite need for quality office accommodation in Barnard Castle and the surrounding areas to support the growth of small firms and attract investment from other areas.

"To encourage this further, the council is also offering new business grants through the North Pennines Leader Fund to encourage entrepreneurs throughout the district."

For more information about Harmire Enterprise Park, call Shirley Simpson, of One NorthEast, on 0191-229 6296.