WORK on a £1.3m scheme to transform a historic building into a flagship centre for enterprise and learning has been announced.

The Mechanics Institute, built in 1826 as a focal point for community learning in Chester-le-Street, has been earmarked for refurbishment as part of the district council's plans to regenerate the town centre.

Redeveloping the institute is one of the flagship projects in Chester-le-Street's New Heart regeneration initiative and is viewed as an important opportunity to make a significant impact for residents and businesses.

Councillor Chris Jukes, the council's regeneration portfolio holder, said last night: "The planned refurbishment of the Mechanics Institute will benefit everyone in the district.

"It is particularly fitting to have learning at the heart of this centre, as the Mechanics Institute was built nearly 200 years ago to fulfil the same purpose."

"This project is one of the most important and innovative projects within the New Heart project, and while it will modernise the facility, the intention is to retain the original facade and features of this historic building."

The facility will be aimed at meeting the business and learning needs of the community, both formally and informally.

Refurbishment plans, which have been approved, include demolishing the outbuildings and extensions, replacing them with a single-storey extension to the main building for office space.

It will also be used as a base for the town centre manager.

Other work includes replacing the slate roof with a raised roof to create more space.

Work will start in April and the institute will reopen early next year.

The council, Enterprise Agency, Durham Business Club, Chester-le-Street Action Team for Jobs and Connexions are all working in partnership on the project

While work is under way, the Chester-le-Street and City of Durham Enterprise Agency have moved temporarily to 1 High Chare, off Chester-le-Street Front Street.