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Search the Public Notice PortalA former public toilet site earmarked to become a 'Forest Café' has been put up for sale nearly three years after planning approval was granted.
The site, on North Road in Durham, received approval in May 2023 to transform the derelict public toilet building into a café.
But more than two years on, signage promising the coffee shop with 'forest views' would be "coming soon" is still in place.
Now, in a fresh blow to the ambitious and "quirky" project, the site has been placed on the market by estate agents Bradley Hall with an asking price of £175,000.
A spokesperson for McCarrick Construction said: “We were approached by a community organisation to build a café in the centre of Durham.
"Having worked with the client previously, we shared their vision on how the development could positively impact the local area and thrive in a buzzing student city like Durham, especially as the location benefits from both student and commuter footfall.
“Unfortunately, due to changes in economic circumstances, our client can no longer proceed with the planned development.
"The café site is therefore available, with planning permission to create a lasting development for someone with imagination and drive to transform this special location.”
Developers McCarrick Construction were granted permission to convert the 1960s toilet block in 2023, but it is understood relevant work has taken place to ensure the site's planning permit will not lapse when it hits the three-year mark in eight months.
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Located near the entrance to Durham Railway Station, the café would see a first floor added with panoramic glass windows offering views of nearby trees.
The McCarrick Construction spokesperson added: "A meaningful start will have been made in the development so the planning permission will continue as planned.
"We look forward to helping the new owner, passing on the designs and information to allow them to bring the vision to life. And of course to enjoy a cuppa there in the very near future."
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