Plans for a “once-in-a-generation” innovation district in County Durham have taken a step further.
Durham County Council has chosen placemaker Muse as its joint venture partner to deliver the first phase of its “nationally significant” Durham Innovation District.
The project will focus on the “rebirth” of Aykley Heads, a 15-hectare site currently home to County Hall, with plans to create 40,000sq metres of commercial space that officials say will become a “catalyst” in attracting “innovation-led businesses and investors to Aykley Heads and the wider district”.
Phil Mayall, managing director at Muse, said: “Durham County Council, supported by Durham University, has already developed an ambitious vision, and we are excited at the prospect of working in partnership to deliver the Durham Innovation District.
“The Aykley Heads campus will act as the catalyst for this nationally significant opportunity which will leverage the long-term vision of the council and delivery capability of Muse, alongside the innovation pedigree of the university.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive economic growth and job creation in County Durham and the North East.”
Councillor Amanda Hopgood, leader of Durham County Council, added: “These are really exciting times for County Durham.
“It is long-standing goal of ours to develop a Strategic Employment Site at Aykley Heads and progressing a joint venture delivery partnership with Muse shows we remain committed to fulfilling that ambition.
“Aykley Heads has the potential to deliver thousands of quality jobs for our residents and, together with other sites in the new Durham Innovation District, it can be a significant driving force for County Durham’s future economic growth, as well as that of the wider North East.”
Supported by Durham University, the wider 62-hectare district, which is already home to several major businesses and institutions, including Durham University Business School, aims to become a hotbed for research, fintech and green technology, creating thousands of jobs.
Professor Karen O’Brien, vice-chancellor of Durham University, added: “The development of Aykley Heads and the Durham Innovation District is a unique opportunity to catalyse inclusive, innovative and sustainable growth in our region, by attracting new investment and creating new, high-quality jobs.
“We look forward to working with Durham County Council to ensure our communities benefit most from this nationally significant project.”
