The McIntyre Centre in Bishop Auckland has celebrated its first birthday since moving into a beautifully transformed historic building in the town.
The centre, housed in the Grade II-listed building on Newgate Street, was previously a family-run shoe shop that had fallen into disrepair. Following a major renovation, it reopened as a vibrant hub for skills development and community activities.
The milestone was marked with a special evening of music, food, and celebration, attended by supporters, dignitaries, and members of the McIntyre family. A celebratory cake, baked by Level 2 student Lucy Jacobs and decorated by catering lecturer Elizabeth MacIntyre, formed a stunning centrepiece.
Shaun Hope, principal and CEO of Bishop Auckland College Group, said: “It has been a fantastic first year for the McIntyre Centre.”When we reopened this iconic building, our vision was to create a space that honoured its past while building a future for our town.”Seeing the students showcasing their skills tonight – from the music to the incredible food – proves that this centre is doing exactly what we set out to do: changing lives and bringing people together.”It is an opportunity for students to thrive and create positive change.”The evening featured a live performance by music student Jayden Tomlinson, along with a canapés and fizz reception prepared by college staff and students.
Mayor of Bishop Auckland, Cllr Sam Zair, said: “Many years ago, growing up, I used to come to the McIntyre shoe shop, as it was then, to get my feet measured. “It was a family affair. “The community that was built around that was a foundation of Bishop Auckland. “When things changed, the shoe shop discontinued, and the building became derelict. “I used to come along Newgate Street and think ‘what a shame.’ “It has been brought back to life again by the college, and it gives me so much pleasure to see it back up and running – not just as a building, but one that is educating the next generation too. “It is marvellous. “The renovation project was led by Bishop Auckland College and funded through the Conservation Area Grant Scheme, a partnership between Durham County Council and Historic England.
Today, the McIntyre Centre serves as a multi-purpose space dedicated to job creation and skills development. It includes a training restaurant and kitchen, retail space for local businesses and delivers the Springboard to Employment scheme, supported by the Stronger Towns Fund. Jen Phillips, head of community and careers at Bishop Auckland College, said: “It is hard to believe it is one year already. “It doesn’t seem five minutes since we had hard hats on, preparing the building for opening. “We got there with help from so many different people, many of whom are with us to celebrate tonight. “We wanted to change lives through skills and guidance and become a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant hub in the heart of the town, creating a launchpad for new opportunities. “To see the growth in confidence with our students is amazing. “The journey is far from over.
“A notable example of the centre’s impact is its partnership with Hiyed CIC, which has helped job seekers such as Josh Clarke and Jessica Sams develop employability skills.
Tracy Fee, director of Hiyed, said: “We have been working with the McIntyre Centre since it opened a year ago. “I was here at the opening. “Josh and Jessica are obtaining fantastic skills to go on and get paid employment. “Both have been working front of house in the cafeteria for nine months. “Josh has always wanted to do this, while Jessica was in college and didn’t know what she wanted to do.”