Pictures show sad state of Eden Arms hotel in Rushyford near Aycliffe

Overgrown weeds, concrete blocks and faded paint has taken the shine from the historic Eden Arms hotel in Rushyford, near Chilton, after it was permanently closed.

It faces demolition after developers recently applied to Durham County Council for a determination on whether prior approval would be needed for its removal.

Read more: Landmark historic hotel in County Durham facing demolition within months

The condition of the building inside is not known but it was last year seen on the market for a total of £1m, with listings saying the site could be "ideal" for development.

Earlier this week, residents and those who had grown an affection towards the building called for an alternative to be considered, saying they would be "sad" to see it go.

Meanwhile, the area's MP Paul Howell said he was "disappointed" to see it under threat, but admitted it had been difficult to see a future given the work needed.

The D&S Times visited the hotel to see how the once popular venue looks now and we were met with the following sight.

Do you think it should be saved? What do you think could be done with it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

On social media, residents in the area and former guests have been keen to share their views on the future of the venue.

One Facebook user wrote: “It's a part of history surely another hotel chain could take it on.”

Whilst others said it “will be sad to see it go”, “no way, this is an historical building” and “it’s our heritage”.

But another stated: “It’s not getting used, probably won’t reopen.

“It will just end up being broken into and vandalised. Knock it down and build a load of affordable housing.”