Durham County Council is set to discuss a major acquisition that could significantly boost the city's economy, as Cabinet members prepare to decide on the purchase of the Milburngate development in the city centre.

Councillors will meet next week to consider negotiating the purchase of the site’s freehold, a move that aligns with the council’s long-term vision for economic growth and regeneration. The 450,000 sq ft mixed-use development, which has remained empty for two years following the collapse of its construction firm, is seen as a key driver for investment and job creation in the region.

-- Advertisement --

Milburngate sits in a prime city centre location and is central to plans for the Durham Innovation District, which will also include:

• Aykley Heads site

• Durham University’s Business School and Data Centre

• The refurbished Durham Light Infantry Museum and Art Gallery

If approved, the acquisition would enable the council to work with tenants and stakeholders to complete and open the development as soon as possible, ensuring it delivers on its potential to create hundreds of jobs and drive further investment in Durham.