A new occupant for the vacant Holland & Barratt shop in Barnard Castle has been confirmed.
However, another of the town’s high street stores, Marie Curie, faces an uncertain future.
Oak Tree Animals’ Charity will open its first store in the Barnard Castle at 31 Market Place in the coming weeks.
The former Holland & Barratt shop has been closed for the past year.
Work is currently ongoing within the building ahead of Oak Tree Animals’ Charity opening its doors to the public.
The charity currently has 13 shops across the north of England from Cockermouth, in Cumbria, across to Cramlington, in Northumberland.
Describing the charity’s aims, a spokesman said: “Oak Tree provides a safe place for cats, dogs and equines (horses and donkeys) in their time of need.”
Meanwhile, the future of the Marie Curie shop on Horse Market in the town is in doubt with the charity in negotiations over a new rental agreement.
James Lees, retail district manager for Marie Curie, said: “We are currently in negotiations with the landlord of our shop in Barnard Castle.
“Once a decision has been made, our colleagues and volunteers will be the first to know.”
“By shopping in and donating to our stores, our supporters continue to help raise vital funds so that Marie Curie can care for more people living with a terminal illness and their loved ones.”
