Register office closure plan due to few ceremonies
GoogleA register office could close as early as next year under proposals to hold ceremonies at a newer venue.
Durham County Council has revealed plans to shut the Barnard Castle office and focus ceremony provision at The Story in Mount Oswald, near Durham city, some 23 miles (37 km) away.
The local authority said the Barnard Castle venue currently provided space for celebrations only and only a few ceremonies took place there.
A closing date is yet to be confirmed, but no new bookings are being taken.
However, all ceremonies already booked at Barnard Castle during 2026 will still go ahead.
"The Barnard Castle venue is not of the same standard as The Story, and there are several alternative and well‑established venues in the area where ceremonies can take place," the council said.
"Due to budget constraints and the low number of ceremonies held at the office, we are unable to invest in improving the building or sustain its future running costs."
The Story venue is located in the Grade II listed Mount Oswald manor house.
It opened in June 2024 and holds County Durham Archives as well as hosting different activities.
The council said it had positive feedback over registration services there, but was also looking into making improvements.
The local authority registers about 5,000 deaths, more than 2,000 births, and helps deliver about 2,000 ceremonies.
