A fire broke out at the disused Bluebell Meadows Infant School site in Trimdon Grange yesterday, causing extensive damage to a portion of the building.
Two fire appliances from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene, successfully extinguishing the blaze. Durham Police were also present to investigate the incident.
Local residents reported observing children entering and leaving the building in recent days, raising concerns about potential trespassing and safety risks associated with the vacant property.
The former Bluebell Meadows Infant School, previously known as Trimdon Grange Infant School, has been closed for some time, and is currently under offer after being put on the market by Durham County Council.
Special Education provider Outcomes First Group are believed to be taking over the site with a special school for 40 pupils to open in January 2025. The New Options Trimdon Hill School will cater for pupils with a variety of needs including Autism.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Durham Police.