(Image: Supplied)
A former MasterChef contestant is set to open a new restaurant in Bishop Auckland after securing £150,000 to transform a long-empty town centre property.
Chef Mike Bartley, a former MasterChef contestant, is launching Jörd on Newgate Street beside the town’s marketplace with help from the Property Reuse Fund.
The fund is part of the Stronger Town Board initiative, which brings vacant properties back into use.
Councillor Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration, and high streets, said: "We’re delighted to support another unit being brought back into use through the Property Reuse Fund.
Jörd on Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland (Image: Supplied)
"Our work with the Stronger Town Board is part of our ongoing ambition to regenerate Bishop Auckland, increase footfall, and boost its standing as a thriving market town and visitor destination.
"Mike is a talented chef who has gone on to many good things since appearing on MasterChef.
"We’re pleased that we’ve been able to support his venture and keep it in the heart of Bishop Auckland.
"I know many people are excited about Jörd and will be coming into the town to visit."
Jörd will offer a fine-dining tasting menu built around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients—an experience Mr Bartley says is "brand new to Bishop Auckland."
Mr Bartley said: "It’s something that’s brand new to Bishop Auckland, and our mantra is a tasting menu that you don’t need to break the bank for.
"Jörd was always going to be in Bishop Auckland.
"I’m really excited to represent the town and help bring people in to visit.
"This is something I’ve been working towards for a long time and the Property Reuse Fund has been so helpful in getting us to this goal.
"Without it, this would never have happened."
Jörd will open to the public on Saturday, October 24.
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Shaun Hope, chair of the Stronger Town Board and principal of Bishop Auckland College, said: "It is fantastic to see Jörd preparing to open its doors and the Stronger Town Board’s investment coming to fruition.
"Jörd is one of many businesses to benefit from the Property Reuse Fund, bringing vacant properties back into use and breathing new life into Bishop Auckland town centre."
The Property Reuse Fund has brought 19 vacant units back into use in Bishop Auckland since it launched.