A REVOLUTIONARY office block with the very latest energy-saving techniques is to officially open later this month.

Developers, architects and business leaders are already being urged to visit the Hambleton District Council depot on Darlington Road to see the latest in sustainable building concepts - from recycled paper insulation to water conservation.

The concept of the showpiece state-of-the-art unit is expected to be picked up by other local authorities.

District councillor Ernest Phillips said: "This new development is ground-breaking for the district council. We are using tried and tested technology to save energy, but it is a first for us."

The new timber-framed two-storey building has a reclaimed slate roof, double-glazed windows and heavily insulated floors and ceiling.

Collected rainwater will be used to flush toilets and high levels of insulation will ensure little need for heating, with the heat generated by electrical equipment, computers and people, enough to keep the building warm.

Movement and lighting level detectors have also been fitted and will automatically switch off lights when they are not needed.

The depot will be officially opened next Wednesday by council chairman, John Prest.