Start in sight for ‘game-changing’ Durham scheme with potential to create 6000 jobs

A new business park with the potential to bring 6,000 jobs to County Durham could soon move into its first phase of development.

The county council’s Cabinet will be asked to agree a report that would trigger work on the first phase of the scheme – the delivery of 21,000 sq ft of new business space at the northern side of the site on Aykley Heads.

Research to inform the best way to maximise the site’s potential is now complete, and if agreed by members on Wednesday (September 12), the building design will be flexible to accommodate multiple tenancies or the expansion requirements of companies moving into the development.

The report recommends the council itself bring forward phase one of the project, which could eventually create 700,000 sq ft of commercial space and boost the economy of County Durham by £400m.

An aerial view of the site

Durham County Council Leader Cllr Simon Henig said: “Aykley Heads presents us with a game-changing opportunity to create a distinctive business location for the North East, providing high quality modern office space in a stunning setting.

A place that offers fantastic opportunities for our residents and with a unique work and lifestyle offering.“

He continued: “Sites of this calibre are rarely available and there is currently nothing that matches it within the region. We should not underestimate the potential of this location and it’s important that we take the lead in helping to bring it forward.”

Phase one is expected to complete next year.

The second phase of the development will see the council vacate its current headquarters on site and move to smaller, more affordable premises on the city’s waterside.

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