PLANS for the future of a visitor centre which promotes Bishop Auckland's heritage have been revealed.

The Discovery Centre, which brings visitors from around the region to the town, is to move from its Market Place base to a bigger building at the heart of a busy shopping street.

It is hoped that work will start shortly to convert the building, which used to be a cycle shop, in North Bondgate.

The project will allow staff at the centre to create a permanent display that will celebrate the history of Bishop Auckland.

Over the years, the centre has made a name for itself offering local people a venue to showcase their talents, hosting everything from Roman history exhibitions to art and craft displays.

Sam Jackson, heritage officer for Groundwork West Durham, which runs the centre, said planning permission had been given for the work and applications had been made for funding to help complete it.

He said: "The new centre will be on two levels.

"What we really want is to create a permanent hands-on history display of Bishop Auckland as well as maintaining a space for local artists and exhibitors to display their work."

The centre would also expand on the idea of further learning, with research areas which will offer people a chance to develop skills.

Mr Jackson said: "We do rely heavily on volunteers and the more people we get the better.

"The new centre will offer exciting opportunities for those who may need to get more experience before taking on new careers.

"It will give them a foot in the door to go on to bigger and better things."

Schools will also be targeted by the new venture, with plans for a room where children could come along and learn more about their heritage.

Mr Jackson said that no firm opening dates had been decided, but it was hoped that the centre would be up and running by spring this year.