Develop North PLC (Develop North), the investment company managed by Newcastle-based fund management specialists Tier One Capital (Tier One), is supporting the next chapter in the transformation of one of County Durham’s most characterful wedding venues, Whitworth Hall.
The London Stock Exchange listed company is providing a £2.4 million funding package to support the significant refurbishment, and extension plans at the Grade II-listed country house, located in Spennymoor, south of Durham City.
The funding has enabled the venue’s owner, The Apartment Group, to create a new chapel and function suite capable of hosting 125 guests, alongside a complete refresh of the estate’s existing facilities. Works have included upgrades to the reception, entrance and bar areas, as well as the refurbishment of all 34 bedrooms.
The Apartment Group, which also owns Northumberland venues Newton Hall and Le Petit Chateau, Runa Farm and Lartington Hall, which are both in Barnard Castle, Darlington’s The Croft Hotel and Grand Villa Heights in Ravenscar, is known for its portfolio of unique and luxurious wedding venues across the North East.
This new investment marks the second time Develop North has supported The Apartment Group, following the successful £2 million refinance and refurbishment of The Croft Hotel in Darlington in 2024.
Since its inception in 2017, Develop North has supported more than 43 developments with a combined Gross Development Value (GDV) of over £280m and helped create over 12,000 jobs. To date, the company has deployed almost £90m in capital, with 16 projects in its current live portfolio, more than two-thirds of which are in the North East of England.
Brendan O’Grady, Fund Manager at Tier One Capital, said: “We’re delighted to once again support The Apartment Group in delivering another stunning North East wedding venue. Whitworth Hall has huge potential, and this investment will enable it to become a premier destination for all-year-round celebrations.
“This project aligns perfectly with Develop North’s strategies to support ambitious businesses and stimulate local economies, while also, in this case, helping to preserve the region’s historic buildings for future generations.”
Stuart Bailey, CEO of The Apartment Group, said: “Whitworth Hall is a magical place, rich in heritage and full of character. With Develop North’s backing, we’ve created something really special that will offer a beautiful and memorable experience for couples and their guests.
“The continued support from Develop North has been invaluable, and we look forward to delivering another successful venue together.”
Professional advice was provided to Develop North by LSH, Eddisons and Ward Hadaway, with Hay & Kilner acting for The Apartment Group.