Delayed city centre development sold
Stuart BoultonA long-delayed city centre development has been sold to new owners.
Milburngate, in Durham, has been bought by property firm Northhold Group, who pledged to bring it to completion.
Work on completing the site, which includes 153 apartments, offices and a leisure complex, is expected to start in the coming months.
Durham County Council leader Andrew Husband said the recent sale would boost plans of the Reform-run local authority to improve the city centre and create a new innovation district.
Northhold Group said it welcomed discussions with contractors and potential tenants, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
"Beyond entertainment and hospitality, the development addresses Durham's growing demand for quality urban living and workspace," the firm added.
Milburngate was originally due to open in 2022.
A Premier Inn hotel, Everyman Cinema and BrewDog pub have been built on the site, but the project has been repeatedly delayed.
The collapse of contractor Tolent in 2023 brought progress to a 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.
Husband 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 fulfill its potential in this prime location at the heart of Durham City."
