A new developer’s ambition to revive a delayed city centre retail and leisure scheme has been backed by an MP, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Durham City’s Mary Kelly Foy said she is “excited” about the Milburngate Development after meeting with the new owners and touring the site.
Earlier this year, Property firm Northhold Group purchased the site, which includes 153 apartments, offices and a leisure complex on the banks of the River Wear.
The buyer pledged to finally bring the “landmark development” to completion and said it will collaborate with Durham County Council to “deliver a vibrant and successful destination for the city”.
A Premier Inn hotel, Everyman Cinema and BrewDog pub have been built at the site, but the project has been repeatedly delayed and shrouded in controversy since 2022, when it was initially due to open.
The collapse of contractor Tolent in 2023 brought progress to an abrupt halt. Since then, ongoing fire safety concerns and alleged defects in the steel framework have prompted further investigations, leaving the site without the necessary certifications to open and still cordoned off.
But after securing the site in March, the developers are expected to start completing the site in the coming months.
Ms Foy said: “I had an extensive tour and another really useful discussion about their plans to unlock the development. I must say that I couldn’t help but feel a bit excited walking around the buildings because the potential this site has to positively impact our city is huge.
“I know many people will ask for timescales but at this moment, firm commitments cannot be offered when there are a variety of factors involved.
“However, I was only too pleased to recommit my support to the owners in any way that I can to ensure the doors to Milburngate fly wide open as soon as they possibly can.”
Last February, Durham County Council’s previous administration agreed to enter negotiations to potentially acquire the site. But the new Reform UK administration said in September it was ‘reviewing its position’ on several projects.
The news of the new developer stepping in was welcomed by politicians and businesses across the city, who have seen the development lie dormant for several years.
Andrew Husband, leader of Durham County Council, said: “We welcome the news of the sale of the Milburngate development to a new developer, particularly given that they have already set out their intention to bring the site to completion and ensure it is able to fulfil its potential in this prime location at the heart of Durham City.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
