A ROAD leading into Durham city is due to be closed for around two weeks in the New Year.

Church Street, in Durham, will be closed from Monday, January 8, to allow the construction of a new sewer.

Surgo Construction applied to Durham County Council for the the closure, which will allow it to access the street’s main drainage system.

It is currently carrying out a £1m renovation project at numbers 31 to 33.

The road closure will be be in place from 6am on Monday, January 8.

The road will be closed for two weeks, subject to completion of works.

During this time traffic will be diverted via Stockton Road and Hallgarth Street.

There will still be pedestrian access via Church Street.

Surgo’s construction director Jeff Charlton said: “We have scheduled the closure to take place at time when we hope to cause the least disruption, having liaised with Durham County Council, but do apologise if anyone is inconvenienced.

“We have a detailed traffic management plan in place and this can be found by visiting the news section of our website, www.surgo.co.uk.”

The 200-year-old building, which is grade II listed, is being renovated after standing empty for around 12 years.

Part of the back of the buildings had collapsed and had to be partially demolished.

The three-storey houses are being turned into three luxury apartments and student accommodation with nine beds.

Planning permission has also been granted for the construction of a detached block to the rear of the building to create a cafe with student accommodation above.