A FORMER derelict car park has been transformed into a new space for villagers to sit.

The refurbished square in Witton Gilbert is on land which used to be the car park of a former pub, which is now a convenience store.

Witton Gilbert Parish Council led the £123,000 scheme, which was funded by the Durham Area Action Partnership, money from the development at Walnook Grange and a one-off council tax hike of 133 per cent.

The square features history of the village, with design inspired by its prehistoric roots, and agricultural and mining past.

Council chairman Neil Liddle said: “We are absolutely delighted with the finished work.

“The village square is unique and we now have a superb focal point for people to meet up."

He added: "The village has been really really behind it and it has turned an ugly site into somewhere beautiful."