A CENTURIES-old building is getting a major renovation to bring its ageing interior up to date.

Beddell House, in Sherburn House, near Durham, is 835 is getting a £4.3m makeover to upgrade the interior.

The former leper hospital is now a care home run by the Sherburn House charity

Esh Property Services will be carrying out the work to update its bedrooms dining rooms, corridors and library within the home, as well as replace its heating system.

Construction director Colin Ford said: “Beddell House, at the site of Sherburn House, is an impressive building with a rich history behind it.

“The interior needs updating to do justice to this elegant home, and provide better comfort to the residents.

Pauline Bishop, the charity’s chief executive, said “After months of planning we are delighted to finally start work with Esh Group to upgrade the building’s services and facilities.

“Residents and their families are looking forward to the improvements the refurbishment will bring and the charity trustees have every confidence that by undertaking this work now we will be able to add years to the life of the building.”