News-From empty building to vital community hub

When Cotherstone in Teesdale lost its shop and post office, residents took matters into their own hands, transforming the village's former Methodist Chapel into a place where locals and visitors can shop, socialise and celebrate the area's heritage.

The Old Chapel opened in June, following years of hard work and fundraising by the community, which raised an impressive £120,000 towards the project. This was boosted by a £120,000 grant from our Towns and Villages Community Resilience Fund; £40,000 from Teesdale Area Action Partnership's Towns and Villages Fund; and a total of £20,000 from Cllr Richard Bell and Cllr Ted Henderson's neighbourhood budgets.

This week, Cllr James Rowlandson, our Cabinet member for resources, investment and assets, joined Cllr Bell and Cllr Henderson on a tour of the building, which now includes a café and shop selling a range of household and kitchen essentials.

Making a difference 

The councillors also learned about the positive difference the venue is making, including:

• Providing employment to 12 people, the majority of which live in the Cotherstone area.
• Serving more than 2,500 customers.
• Raising £300 for local causes by selling ice creams at Cotherstone Fun Weekend.
• Providing more than 200 hours of volunteering opportunities.

Overwhelmingly positive

Chris Tarpey, treasurer of the Cotherstone Old Chapel Project, said: "It's taken a lot of effort from a lot of committed volunteers, but we're really pleased with how The Old Chapel has turned out. The feedback we've had from locals and visitors to the area has been overwhelmingly positive, with lots of comments along the lines of 'it's just what the village needed.'

"Business in the cafe has already exceeded our expectations, and we're excited about the opportunities to improve and expand what we offer both in the cafe and the shop. We couldn't have done this without the backing of our shareholders, who shared our vision for what could be achieved for the village. Our brilliant volunteer teams have contributed to everything from literally laying the foundations to baking cakes and serving customers. We've also used lots of local tradespeople on the renovation project, and now we are employing local people to work in the shop and cafe.  

"We are also extremely grateful to Councillors Bell and Henderson, and the Area Action Partnership team at Durham County Council. Their belief in our project and their generous financial and practical contributions were instrumental in bringing The Old Chapel to life." 

Playing a vital role

Cllr Rowlandson said: "It's fantastic this empty building has been brought back in to use and is playing a vital role in village life. This is a key aim of our Towns and Villages Programme, and we are delighted to have supported residents in making their vision a reality.

"The Old Chapel is somewhere people can meet, socialise and buy essential groceries. The importance of such amenities within rural communities cannot be overestimated, especially for residents who don't drive. What's more, it's contributing to the economic prosperity of the area by enhancing Teesdale's visitor offer and attracting more walkers and holidaymakers.

"It's been an absolute pleasure to visit today and meet the volunteers who have worked so hard to bring this project to fruition."