WORK is set to start on a long-awaited restoration and refurbishment of a “hidden gem” nestled between two World Heritage site landmarks.

The former Exchequer and Chancery building on Palace Green, Durham, is to be given a new lease of life, allowing it to open to the public for the first time.

Built in the 15th Century by Bishop Robert Neville, near to the entrance to Durham Castle, and a stone’s throw from the cathedral, it was used for the administration of the legal and financial transactions of the county palatine.

Bishops at that time were granted powers to resolve legal and financial dealings on behalf of the Crown, for the area between the River Tees and the Scottish border, earning them the title ‘Prince Bishops’.

It is the only administrative building used by the Prince Bishops to survive from the medieval era, and, since the 1850s, has been used as part of Durham University Library.

The building adjoins the rest of the Palace Green Library complex, which has undergone redevelopment since 2010.

Its restoration will is intended to create state-of-the-art exhibition space, as well as conservation, research and learning facilities.

The work on the Exchequer building, which is now starting, is the latest phase of the Palace Green Library restoration programme.

University Librarian, Jon Purcell said: “We’re delighted the Exchequer building is to be refurbished in the final phase of a six-year project to redevelop and share this wonderful building.

“It’s a hidden treasure which the university is keen to share more widely.”

Dr Keith Bartlett, director of culture for Durham University, said: “We’re all looking forward to seeing the beautiful medieval features of the Exchequer building restored and revealed.

“We also hope to learn more about the building as we uncover features which have been behind bookcases for decades.”

Work now underway will include stonework restoration, conservation of internal fixtures and fittings, and improving environmental conditions for the special collections of ageing books, which will continue to be stored there.

Following the restoration, the university plans to open the building to the public with guided tours.

There are also plans for library tours, introducing visitors to the Routh and Bamburgh book collections stored in the building, alongside Bishop Cosin’s Library.

Dr Bartlett added: “The Exchequer is a gem of a building, with many stories to tell, from the era of the Prince Bishops to the early days of the university and its libraries.

“We’re looking forward to opening up the building to visitors, sharing and revealing its history.”

The refurbishment is expected to be completed at some stage next year.