Next chapter for history houses

Andrew Clay, who developed Woodend Creative Workspace in Scarborough (pictured), said he wanted to help transform other listed buildings which are becoming redundant as councils reduce their overheads.

He said: “Woodend is a perfect template for local authorities and similar organisations – showing them how they can breathe new life into a historic building, and create both long term and lasting employment at the same time.”

Once the home of the famous Sitwell family, Woodend eventually became a natural history museum but financial difficulties led to its closure in 2005. After redevelopment, Woodend reopened in April 2008.