Darlington-based My Property Box planning expansion after former music club move

A letting agency is tuning up for new jobs and further expansion after following in the footsteps of world-renowned music stars.

My Property Box has moved into a new 2,500 sq ft head office on Darlington’s Grange Road which, during much of the 1960s, was famous throughout the region as the home of the La Bamba Club and casino.

The agency is targeting continued expansion with its acquisition of the building – which, as well as hosting Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck, welcomed stars such as Shirley Bassey, Billy Fury, The Animals, Gene Pitney and PJ Proby.

The company currently employs 16 staff. However, it expects to increase its headcount and geographical reach throughout Tees Valley and the wider North East following its expansion.

My Property Box previously operated out of Darlington’s Business Central but bought the town centre property following a period of growth resulting in the need for more office space.

The new head office was officially opened by Councillor Heather Scott OBE, leader of Darlington Borough Council.

My Property Box was established in 2012 and delivers a range of letting services, including a digital platform for landlords and a mobile app for tenants.

Ben Quaintrell, managing director, said: “We have enjoyed a prolonged period of growth and positivity, which has facilitated this latest expansion.

“The move to an office right at the heart of Darlington’s town centre presents us with an ideal location that will set My Property Box up for further success.

“I am grateful to Councillor Scott for officially opening our new head office, which marks a significant milestone in our relatively short history.

“We are now looking forward to building on this positivity and to further expand the business throughout the North East.”

Councillor Scott added: “I am delighted to welcome a new independent business to the Imperial Quarter of Darlington.

“We regard this area as a very important asset to the regeneration of the town centre and hope this will encourage more small businesses to locate here.”

The La Bamba Club, famous for its sprung dance floor, opened in May 1963 but failed to re-open its doors following a devastating fire in the summer of 1968.