An historic Bishop Auckland site that was previously home to a 19th Century villa built by railway pioneer Joseph Pease is on track for conversion into a development of 53 modern houses.
Grade II-listed Bedford Lodge was built by colliery owner and South Durham MP Pease in 1839 after he had succeeded his father Edward in running the famous Stockton to Darlington Railway.
Having fallen into severe disrepair, the villa was demolished to make way for the new development of homes on a site that was also well known as the former factory of BBH Windings and electronics firm Farnell Instruments.
Developed by North-East property experts Mandale, the new site – appropriately named Bedford Sidings – is situated close to Asda, off South Church Road.
Eighteen of the homes – a mixture of detached and semi-detached starter homes – have been sold in just six months, with builders struggling to keep up with the demand.
First to complete the purchase of one of the site’s 53 high-quality homes were first-time buyers Keith Jayne and Emma Hawley.
Teesside University graduate Keith, assistant restaurant manager at Bishop Auckland’s Toronto Lodge, and Marks & Spencer sales assistant Emma are eagerly looking forward to sharing their new three-bedroom home from mid-October.
A further four of the two, three and four-bedroom homes are now available with five more set for completion before Christmas.
Last weekend a celebratory show home opening saw children’s construction character Ivor Goodsite as star attraction for children, whilst adults were inspired by the new show homes and indulged in Prosecco and canapes.
• Bedford Sidings’ show homes and marketing suite are open Thursday to Monday, 10.30am to 5.30pm, and Sundays, 10.30am to 4.30pm
