Detailed planning permission has been granted for the construction of Milburngate on the banks of the River Wear.
Photo caption: Milburngate overlooking the River Wear in Durham City
Durham County Council has agreed the application allowing for the creation of a brand-new living, working and leisure destination in the heart of the city.
The permission enables the joint venture of Arlington Real Estate and the Richardson family to deliver the first phase of development at Milburngate which, upon completion, will provide a range of leisure facilities, bars and restaurants, high quality offices and luxury apartments.
Already, Milburngate has attracted a range of premium occupiers including the Everyman boutique cinema, Pitcher & Piano and the new concept steak restaurant Bar + Block.
These high-profile brands will be joined by a 92-bed Premier Inn hotel; a detailed planning application for which will be submitted separately to Durham County Council.
The joint venture is currently engaged in a pre-qualification process with potential construction partners and following the completion of this in the coming weeks, an invitation to submit tenders from shortlisted contractors will be issued.
This landmark development in Durham will create a regionally-significant destination and lead to the creation of more than 1,000 new jobs, as well as enhancing the leisure, business and residential opportunities in the area.
Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “Milburngate will bring a range of cultural, social and economic benefits and we are delighted Durham County Council share in our vision with the granting of our application. The delivery of this transformational project will have a positive impact that reaches beyond the City’s boundaries and will help attract people to Durham from across the North East and further afield.”
Cllr Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “We’re very supportive of this landmark development for County Durham, which will contribute to the county’s growing reputation as a destination for entertainment, retail and fine dining experiences.
“Through the creation of 1,000 new jobs in the city, we’re safeguarding the economic wellbeing of Durham for current residents and future generations of workers.”