News

Landmark development gets £3m Government cash

(6 March 2009)

Elevation to Stockton Road

Preparation work on a landmark development for Durham is set to begin a year early after receiving almost £3m from Government.

Durham University's multi-million pound Gateway Project could sustain more than 200 local construction jobs. The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) announced the release of the advanced funding for enabling work on the proposed £48m development. The money was originally earmarked for release in 2010-2011 but has been brought forward in an effort to stimulate the local economy during the economic downturn. The advance funding will see work begin this summer on demolition of existing structures, civil engineering works and the diversion of services and utilities in preparation for Gateway which is being planned for land on the University’s Science Site, alongside Stockton Road, Durham. Durham University intends to place contracts for building and civil engineering works with local contractors with well established regional supply chains. Up to 50 people will be employed in the enabling work rising to more than 200 during construction of Gateway which is subject to planning permission. The University is working with city planners and a planning application is expected to be submitted by late spring. If successful the University aims to begin construction in spring 2010 and complete the Gateway development by summer 2012. Residents, who have already been involved in two consultations, will be able to have their say on the proposals at a public consultation event which is being planned for mid to late April. Further details will be announced in due course. Gateway would house a new Law School and a centre for student services such as admissions, counselling, welfare and careers advice to enhance the experience of the University’s students. It would also be the University’s new headquarters replacing Old Shire Hall, in Old Elvet, and would include a major extension to the existing University Library. Professor Chris Higgins, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, said: “The University is at the heart of Durham and the Gateway project is a significant development for the future prosperity of the city as a whole. “The effect of this advanced funding will be immediate and will help sustain employment in the city and surrounding areas that have been affected by the current financial situation.” John Denham, Secretary of State for Higher Education, said: “I am delighted that Durham University has been awarded nearly £3m to develop its Gateway project. “The project will secure local jobs for those in vital building and construction work. “This funding is part of a wider Government initiative to bring forward £3bn of funding for important public sector projects and will bring real benefits to students and the public alike. “Higher Education has an important role to play in supporting businesses, especially during the downturn.” Gateway will enable the University to enhance access for the public, staff and students to its many treasures and collections housed on Palace Green. This project, has already received £500,000 from The Wolfson Foundation and Research Libraries UK. Gateway is also linked to the development of a World Heritage Site Visitor Centre at 7 Owengate, being created by the University in partnership with Durham City Vision. Harvey Dowdy, Director of Durham City Vision, said: “This is splendid news for Durham and will contribute to the economic regeneration of the city. “The World Heritage Site Visitor Centre is a prime example where we’re working with partners such as the University, the Cathedral and One North East to deliver high quality projects; we have one of Europe’s finest buildings and together we’ll provide a far greater experience for the thousands of people who visit it.” The announcement that the Gateway project is to receive advanced funding was welcomed by Regional Development Agency One North East. Last year the Agency bought Old Shire Hall and 14 and 15 Old Elvet from the University and, once Gateway is complete, plans to sell the properties to a suitable organisation to help maintain the character of the area, perhaps converting the Grade II listed building into a boutique hotel. David Cramond, Director of Capital Development at One North East, said: “The Gateway development project is hugely important for both Durham University and the City itself – helping secure the university’s status as a world class institution and enhancing support for students in new state-of-the-art facilities.” Councillor Neil Foster, Durham County Council's Cabinet member for Economic Regeneration, said: “We are delighted with the news and look forward to working with the University in developing these exciting proposals."