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No answers a year after fire at former Shotley Bridge stately home
Overview
A year after a devastating fire destroyed the Grade II-listed former Shotley Park Residential Care Home in Shotley Bridge, County Durham, Durham Police have closed their arson investigation due to evidential difficulties. The building, dating back to the 1800s and previously used as a Dr Barnardo's children's home, had been granted planning permission in 2024 to become a hotel before the blaze occurred on 5 October 2025.
Key points
- A fire destroyed the Grade II-listed former Shotley Park Residential Care Home on 5 October 2025.
- Durham Police closed their arson investigation due to evidential difficulties after reviewing CCTV, speaking to witnesses, and questioning a 16-year-old boy who was released with no further action.
- The 19th-century building served as a Dr Barnardo's children's home from 1947 to 1986 and later as a care home until its closure in 2023.
- Planning permission had been granted in 2024 to convert the property into a hotel.
- Durham County Council secured the site with fencing and warning signs and continues to monitor the property.