A NEW dog grooming parlour is the first of two new businesses to open in a former Salvation Army building.

Angela Nixon and Debbie Johnson have unveiled Tails at the premises in Tempest Road, Seaham.

They plan to open a hair salon, barbers and beauty salon later next year, with space for possible complimentary health treatments – such as podiatry and physiotherapy – in the future.

Durham County Council contributed funds to bring the derelict building back into use after standing empty for over three years

The new business also got support from the council’s DurhamWorks scheme, to help fund and train a new member of staff.

Cllr Neil Foster, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “We’re sure that Tails will be a great success and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to help yet another new County Durham business get off the ground.”

The new businesses are expected to create up to 16 new employment opportunities.

Angela said: “We’re excited to be launching our new bespoke dog grooming salon at our seafront location in Seaham.

“We’ve breathed a new lease of life into the old Salvation Army building with help from the council.

“We have commissioned industry specialists, including an interior designer, branding consultant and architect who usually work on five star hotels.

“They, with many others, have assisted us in achieving our purpose-built salon which we hope will be a very different and new experience for both pets and their parents.”

DurhamWorks is a partnership programme between the council and 16 organisations who are working together to support young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). This project has seen a DurhamWorks Learning, Working, Earning Grant provided by the County Durham Community Foundation to assist with the salary, equipment and workwear for the new member of staff employed by Tails.