Durham Council considers purchasing the Milburngate site aiming to end delays and create a vibrant city center with homes, offices and leisure amenities.
The project stalled when Tolent went bankrupt in 2023. Fire safety issues further blocked completion. Arlington Real Estate leads the Milburngate development and is responsible for finishing it properly.
Arlington was handling safety problems, working with the council to solve issues. Sadly, they could not agree on a solution. Businesses like BrewDog awaited openings for years, and some tenants reportedly withdrew their plans.
The council believes buying Milburngate helps the situation. Councillors will vote on buying the site, as the purchase supports an Innovation District plan. This district would include Aykley Heads, the university’s business school, and the DLI museum.
Elizabeth Scott discussed the project’s economic value, highlighting Milburngate’s impact on the city and county economy. She cited its riverside location as very advantageous, attracting many businesses.
She mentioned retail, leisure, and office providers, alongside apartments and a hotel as parts of the development. ее Completion could bring economic gains to Durham. Arlington Real Estate acknowledges the council’s words but declined to comment further just now.
