A FORMER Grade II listed pub, which has been converted into work spaces for local businesses, will open next month.

The Duke William, in Staveley, was left derelict after serving its last orders more than four years ago, but has now been given a fresh lease of life by property development and regeneration company, Watch This Space.

'Billy’s Space' which was designed by John Coward Architects will be a creative work hub suitable for office or leisure use and is made up of seven spaces, from one to fifty person businesses.

The 6,000 sq ft development includes cycle storage, electric car charging, showers and each space can be rented or bought.

The spaces are available to buy or rent from November 4 and to celebrate, a special launch event will take place that same day from 2pm until 6pm with an invite open to all.

This will give fellow residents and prospective businesses the opportunity to take a tour of the new development as it opens its doors for the first time.

The event will include a performance from world champion free runner Ryan Doyle who is coming to inspire the youngsters to be active and take on new challenges and live music from local Lakes guitarist, Fiona Hanlon.

Original furniture from the former pub has been upcycled and will be for grabs with all money raised going to preserve and restore St Margaret’s Tower, the listed building next door to Billy’s Space which is looked after by a group of local elderly gentleman known as ‘The Last of the Summer Wine’.

Speaking about the launch, Michelle Rothwell, founder of Watch This Space said: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Billy’s Space as we have breathed fresh life back into a once much-loved building and this development will help to nurture and retain local talent.

“By regenerating this property, and creating innovative work spaces, we hope to inspire employees and create a hub for the next generation of businesses in Staveley to grow and succeed in a beautiful community.

“It’s also in the perfect location, being so close to the Staveley Mill Yard, so by bringing Billy’s Space to the market we can further help to cement Staveley as an established business destination."