Milburngate development in Durham has been sold
The long-delayed Durham city centre Milburngate development has been sold to new owners
The long-delayed Durham city centre Milburngate development has been sold to new owners.
Property firm Northhold Group announced it has 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”.
Work is expected to start on completing the site in the coming months.
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.
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.
Announcing the purchase on Thursday, Northhold Group added: “Beyond entertainment and hospitality, the development addresses Durham’s growing demand for quality urban living and workspace.
“The development includes office space and 153 built-to-rent apartments, positioning the city centre as an attractive location for both working professionals and residents seeking contemporary city living.
“We welcome discussions with contractors and prospective tenants who would like to be part of Milburngate’s future.”
Andrew Husband, leader of Durham County Council, said the recent sale will boost the local authority’s plans to improve the city centre and create a new innovation district.
The Reform councillor added: “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.