A RUNDOWN shop in the centre of Bedale has reopened as a unique centre for learning.

In a £550,000 development scheme led by the District Council, the former hardware store has been given a new lease of life as a one stop shop 'selling' learning and skills to local people and businesses.

The grade II listed building at number 17 Market Place had been empty for many years - falling into disrepair once the hardware shop moved out.

Now redeveloped, the property has been let to Business Support and Development Ltd.

"By moving from cramped offices in Bridge Street into the centre of Bedale Business Support now has a major high street presence," said Cabinet Member for Prosperity, Councillor Tony Hall.

"Providing a single shop window for all training providers will improve consumer choice and ensure better co-ordination between providers.

"This scheme has also seen the district council able to renovate a rundown historic building - an important part of regenerating our market towns. We hope others will follow our lead and look to restore more of our town centre buildings for business use."

Work on transforming the building began in October last year and was completed by July. Cash has come from Hambleton District Council and regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, with building preservation and project management help coming from the North of England Civic Trust.