The first of two new businesses has opened in Seaham after Durham County Council contributed funds to bring the former Salvation Army building back into use.
After standing empty for over three years, the funding has seen the exterior of the building on Tempest Road restored and improved as part of the council’s ongoing investment in the area. The work has seen the creation of a new mixed-use development which is now home to dog grooming parlour Tails. In a double boost for the new business, they also received support from the council’s DurhamWorks scheme to help fund and train a new member of staff.
After its recent opening, owners Angela Nixon and Debbie Johnson will now be combining getting tails wagging in the area with the creation of a second business in the same building. A hair salon, barbers and beauty salon will open next year with space for possible complimentary health treatments – such as podiatry and physiotherapy – in the future.
Cllr Neil Foster, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “We’re sure that Tails will be a great success and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to help yet another new County Durham business get off the ground. The council is committed to supporting businesses across the county, helping to create jobs and improve the economy of County Durham for everyone.
“The funding has also seen a derelict building brought back into use and restored to its former glory, further improving Seaham and hopefully encouraging an even more vibrant local economy.”
The new businesses are expected to create up to 16 new employment opportunities in a wide range of roles.
Angela said: “We’re excited to be launching our new bespoke dog grooming salon at our seafront location in Seaham. We’ve breathed a new lease of life into the old Salvation Army building with help from the council.
“We have commissioned industry specialists, including an interior designer, branding consultant and architect who usually work on five star hotels. They, with many others, have assisted us in achieving our purpose-built salon which we hope will be a very different and new experience for both pets and their parents.”
DurhamWorks is a partnership programme between the council and 16 organisations who are working together to support young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). This project has seen a DurhamWorks Learning, Working, Earning Grant provided by the County Durham Community Foundation to assist with the salary, equipment and workwear for the new member of staff employed by Tails.