The construction of a new STACK venue in Bishop Auckland paused amid construction and financial issues
Last updated 1st May 2025
The construction of a new STACK venue in Bishop Auckland has been paused amid construction and financial issues.
Officials say work on the Newgate Street site has been temporarily halted due to structural issues with nearby buildings.
The site’s owners have also admitted a “funding gap”, which has impacted progress.
Yet, despite the delays and concerns from residents, STACK said it hasn’t given up on the County Durham venue.
Neill Winch, STACK CEO, said: “We remain fully committed to bringing STACK to Bishop Auckland and are actively working to close a funding gap to ensure the successful delivery of the project.”
STACK is known for its bustling leisure venues in Newcastle, Seaburn and Middlesbrough, with plans to open in Durham City.
Once complete the new venue will have a selection of bars and street food vendors based around a central ‘plaza’ area. Plans for the new multi-storey site on Newgate Street were approved in 2023 but have been repeatedly held up before and after the demolition of the former WHSmith store.
Rob Yorke, county councillor for West Auckland and Chair of Trustees at the Auckland Project, described the delay as a “funding stalemate” and warned, “we’re not getting anywhere fast”.
But Mr Winch said the funding issues are not to blame for the delays. He added: “Our decision to temporarily pause work on-site is unrelated to this funding matter. The pause is due to movement detected in a building adjacent to the STACK site, which is currently being propped up. As a precaution, we have stepped back while the situation is monitored.
“As soon as it has been established that there is no further movement and the site is deemed safe to proceed, we will resume work. We appreciate the patience and understanding of the local community and look forward to delivering an exciting new venue for Bishop Auckland.”
Durham County Council said it is working to find a permanent solution for the issues.
Graham Wood, interim head of inclusive growth and partnerships, said: “We are aware that there are ongoing cost pressures with the development, as with all construction projects, and we will be working closely with the developers to ensure the project is completed as part of our ambitious plans to regenerate the town.”