A £4M scheme to transform one of County Durham's best known hotels, is well under way.

The Grade II listed Georgian Hardwick Hall at Sedgefield, has had two new wings added as part of the project, which is approved and supported by English Heritage.

The west wing comprises of 36 new bedrooms, bringing the total number of rooms in the hotel to 52.

The new east wing holds a conference and banqueting suite, with seating for more than 500 guests.

All the new bedrooms feature high-tech communications such as ISDN and modem facilities, as well as hi-fi, satellite and DVD systems.

The original Hall, its foyer, dining room, boardroom and other meeting rooms are undergoing a complete transformation. A new entrance and reception have been created.

Hardwick Hall is part of the regional private hotel group, Ramside Estates.

John Adamson, the director responsible for the refurbishment project said: "This scheme at Hardwick represents a huge investment for our group. We are very confident that there is strong demand for a high quality hotel in South Durham.

"Hardwick has always been popular, but our customers' needs are changing; they need more accommodation with many facilities.

"Business people and businesses are becoming more mobile. They need good quality communications and pleasant, relaxing surroundings with high class service."

He added: "Our private customers form a very important part of our business too. Ramside Estates is renowned for providing exceptional facilities and arrangements for wedding parties and other family occasions. Looking after our families and private parties is a priority at Hardwick."

Commenting on the project, Peter Bromley, regional director of English Heritage North-East, said: "English Heritage welcomes the positive contribution Hardwick Hall Hotel is playing in the partnership to achieve the restoration of the parkland landscape."

Hardwick Hall is the former country seat of the squires of Sedgefield. The estate dates from 1183 and Hardwick Manor from 1435.