PLANS for the future of a derelict school building severely damaged by arson are being discussed.

Durham County Council, Durham Constabulary and Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service have met with county councillors to discuss ways forward following a major blaze at the former Greenland Primary School in South Moor, Stanley.

Firefighters spent eight hours tackling the fire, which saw the roof of the building almost completely destroyed and left much of the rest of the building unsafe.

The building was sold by the authority in 2016 and last year plans to create a 109-bed hostel were withdrawn after a campaign of public opposition.

Convicted fraudster Bashar Al-Issa, who took out a 15-year lease on the property, had hoped set up a centre for vulnerable adults.

The Northern Echo has been unable to contact Mr Al-Issa but the council has said it is in contact with the current owner of the building, Bristol-based Crescent Trustees.

It hopes that an agreement can be reached that will see the demolition of the property and eventual redevelopment of the site.

Oliver Sherratt, the council’s head of environment, said: “We understand that the condition of the building is a cause of concern for those living nearby so we would like to reassure them that we are working extremely hard with our partners to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

“Ideally, we would like to see the building demolished and the site redeveloped and brought back into use and that will be the driving factor behind our discussions with the owner.”

Fencing has been placed around the site to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians and neighbourhood wardens are carrying out additional patrols.

Councillor Carole Hampson said: “We know that residents are concerned about the site and really want to reassure those living near the building that we will continue to do all we can to ensure the situation is resolved.”