AN £8.5m office complex in Darlington is now complete.

The five-storey Feethams House in the town centre is now ready for tenants to move in.

The first company is subsea firm DeepOcean, which has signed an agreement to take 7,000sq ft of space across the whole of the top floor, while talks are continuing with other potential tenants.

Councillor Heather Scott, leader of the council, said: “Feethams House is a marvellous example of the ambition we have in Darlington to keep moving our economy forward. It is a new opportunity for businesses in the town who are looking to grow or to welcome new businesses who are drawn here by what we have to offer.

“Feethams House is in an excellent position, close to the town centre and our excellent rail and road links and offers office accommodation of the highest standard.

“Thank you to all the building contractors who have worked so hard to get it finished in the extraordinary circumstances in which we find ourselves, it is a tremendous effort on their part.”

Construction on the building, which was funded by Darlington Borough Council, the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority and the European Regional Development Fund, has continued throughout the coronavirus lockdown.

It was built by contractor Wilmott Dixon, which was able to continue work due to "stringent" safety measures in place.

It is hoped DeepOcean will be able to able to move in this summer, depending on lockdown restrictions.

Talks are continuing with other potential tenants for the 30,000sq ft office, which offers accommodation for small and medium businesses in the professional services, digital and creative fields.

Cllr Alan Marshall, the council's cabinet member for economy, said: “Strengthening Darlington’s economy is our key focus as a council, we want to see good quality jobs and companies that will invest in the area. A strong economy is a cornerstone to a successful borough and ensuring the well-being of our residents.

“Feethams House is an excellent opportunity for any business looking to grow and improve its standing in the region and I would encourage interested parties to come forward.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “The completion of Feethams House is another big step forward in our plans for Darlington. It will provide the Grade A-office space we need to allow local businesses to grow and to attract major firms to the region, creating jobs for local people in the process."