The Botanist comes to Milburngate

New World Trading Company (NWTC) has announced that the next location its award-winning brand The Botanist will open is Durham, after reaching a lease agreement with the city’s brand new mixed-use development, Milburngate.

Set over two floors, the newly built venue will include a bar area, a dedicated stage for live music, restaurant dining for up to 140 quests and a large outdoor terrace for drinking and dining.

Renowned for its lavish botany-inspired interiors, innovative cocktails, signature hanging kebabs and live music offering, The Botanist will bring an immersive experience to the waterside development, which is in the final stages of construction on the banks of the River Wear.

In addition to premium leisure venues including The Botanist, Milburngate also features a hotel, 153 built-to-rent, high quality apartments and much-needed Grade A office space, creating a landmark live, work, leisure destination overlooking the historic city of Durham and its UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tim McCormac, Property Director at New World Trading Company said, “Bringing our unique concepts to new cities and towns for the first time is always an exciting moment for the business.

“When we first saw the plans for the Milburngate development, we felt the waterfront lifestyle destination aligned well with our brand vision and direction. We can’t wait for the residents of Durham to experience our truly immersive offer at The Botanist.”

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said, "We're absolutely delighted to welcome The Botanist to Milburngate, and we can’t wait until it opens. Attracting premium food and beverage brands like The Botanist to Durham has been a priority for us, and it reflects the high-specification product on offer at Milburngate.

“Now, we’re focussed on working closely with the team at New World Trading Company, along with our other occupiers, as we review and implement the final stages of construction, which is enabling us to set a new timetable for completion.”

Simon Eastwood, Real Estate Director at Richardson, said: “It’s great news that New World Trading Company has chosen to locate its Botanist brand at Milburngate. Their arrival underpins the premium quality of this stunning riverside development which continues to drive strong occupier interest from other potential tenants for both the leisure and office space."

The Durham venue will create 60 jobs in the area. Roles available will be listed here.

Everyman launches recruitment drive

Everyman has launched a recruitment drive for its brand-new cinema at Milburngate, Durham City’s landmark living, work and leisure destination.

About 45 jobs are being created at the luxury cinema, which is due to open by the end of the year, and will include team members, chefs and management roles.

With 38 locations nationwide, Everyman is one of the most innovative cinema operators in the UK, offering guests a high quality, and service-driven movie experience. Its venues feature distinctive and stylish sofa and armchair seating, a licensed bar, food, table service, digital projection and surround sound technology.

As well as showcasing the latest movie releases, it will offer a broad programme of films, including niche screenings, and special events comprising film festivals, seasons and live Q&As.

The recruitment drive is being led by Ferne Stephenson, who has been appointed as general manager of its new Durham venue.

Ferne, who has worked for Everyman for three-and-a-half years starting as assistant manager at Newcastle and then manager at York and Liverpool, said: “It’s great to be at the forefront of recruiting a new team for the Everyman in Durham.

“We’ve got an incredibly strong culture within the business, so we’re looking for individuals who will be passionate about and committed to the Everyman ethos of creating something special that offers luxury and style. Our recruitment focuses very much on personality as the Everyman brand is all about an exceptional customer experience and service. Hospitality experience may be an advantage but is not essential.”

Milburngate, which is a joint venture between Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, will, alongside the cinema, a 93-bed hotel and a range of premium restaurants and bars, also feature 153 built-to-rent apartments and contemporary, flexible grade A office space.

Allan Cook, founder of Arlington Real Estates, said: “The Everyman brand is renowned for its sumptuous venues with sofa-style seating and for providing customers with a high-quality experience including being able to enjoy a glass of wine and food while they watch a film.

“It is fantastic to see the cinema’s development enter its next crucial stage with the search beginning for staff to support what, we are confident, will become a leading leisure destination for Durham.”

Simon Eastwood, real estate director at Richardson, said: “The Everyman cinema perfectly complements the regeneration and renaissance of Milburngate in the heart of one of the country’s most prestigious and historic cities.

“The special appeal of Everyman’s style and polish will attract people from the local community and much further afield.”

For more details about the Everyman Durham vacancies visit their website here.

Milburngate apartments launched!

Milburngate is delighted to launch ‘The Gardens’, a brand new, vibrant, build-to-rent community of 153 apartments, set across a trio of buildings, located in Durham City’s Northern Quarter on the banks of the River Wear.

The studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments are surrounded by a thriving new neighbourhood of places to eat, drink, shop and play by the river.

The apartments, which are furnished and fully kitted out to the highest spec, will be available for move ins from January 2023.

Residents can choose from a variety of different floorplans, inclusive of duplex and loft style apartments, as well as river or Durham skyline views.

Amenities and services in residents monthly rental include; rooftop terraces, communal gardens, an onsite team, pet-friendly living and more.

Residents of the Gardens will join a vibrant new community in the heart of Durham that already includes a boutique Everyman cinema, and premium hospitality venues such as BrewDog and Bar + Block.

Developed in partnership between Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, Milburngate is the North East’s newest live, work, leisure destination.

The apartments are being operated by Native Residential, one of the fastest growing independent third-party BTR operators in the UK.

With a mission to create communities with soul, their portfolio includes schemes in prime locations like Birmingham, Leeds, London, Manchester and Milton Keynes.

Colleen McCaughey, Community Manager at The Gardens said, "The Gardens reflects a new vision of rental living where residents can truly live amongst it all. In addition to living in an outstanding, accessible location, The Gardens brings together an array of services, amenities and community experiences that create truly soulful living."

Allan Cook, Founder of Arlington Real Estate, said, "The Gardens is at the very core of Milburngate, both in terms of its location, but also as a place that will be the beating heart of this new riverside community. It has been designed to complement and integrate into the other aspects of Milburngate, providing the highest quality new homes in this stunning historic, yet forward looking city."

Bookings for viewings can be made now at www.thegardensmilburngate.co.uk.

BrewDog heads to Milburngate in Durham city centre

Milburngate has confirmed it has reached agreement with BrewDog for the premium operator to open a venue at Durham’s brand-new riverside destination.

Marking the world-renowned craft brewer’s entrance into Durham’s hospitality market, the bar will take a prime position at Milburngate overlooking the River Wear and the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The 3,736 sq ft unit includes a large outdoor seating area with uninterrupted views of Durham Cathedral and Castle and along the city’s picturesque riverside.

Currently with 67 UK locations, in addition to bars in more than 20 countries including United States, Spain, Germany, Italy, Australia and Sweden, Milburngate is part of BrewDog’s continued expansion with a further dozen in the pipeline.

Further details of the bar, which will include BrewDog’s eponymous range of craft beers and high-quality food, will be announced in the coming months ahead of an opening date that will be announced soon.

BrewDog joins other premium brands that have chosen Milburngate including the boutique cinema chain, Everyman, and steak restaurant Bar + Block. They will take their places alongside a flagship 93-bed Premier Inn hotel. Further occupiers are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Phase one of Milburngate will be completed in the autumn and will establish the riverside development as a landmark live, work and leisure destination. Developed by a joint venture between Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, Milburngate will also feature 153 built-to-rent apartments and contemporary, flexible Grade A office space.

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: We're delighted to have secured another premium brand like BrewDog at Milburngate. The quality of the scheme, its riverside location and access to a thriving social scene in Durham are just some of the reasons it chose to locate here. It's a perfect fit for Milburngate and its arrival will certainly bring something new and fresh to the city that will attract both local people and visitors from across the region.”

Simon Eastwood, Real Estate Director at Richardson, said: “BrewDog is a highly sought-after brand that will be very much at home at Milburngate. Securing BrewDog as one of our anchor occupiers demonstrates the ambition we have for Milburngate as a major destination that will enhance the economic and social prosperity of the area.”

Tower crane removal marks significant milestone

The landmark regeneration of Durham’s former passport office has reached a significant milestone with the removal of the site’s largest tower crane.

At over 53m tall, the Saex S-65 crane is three times taller than the Angel of the North and has been an impressive sight on the Durham City skyline since its installation in February 2020.

The crane has played a pivotal role in the construction phase supporting the distribution of materials across the six-acre site in, what the project management team has described as, a game of logistical chess.

The removal operation spanned a five-day period to remove the crane requiring careful coordination with Met Office weather warnings with Storm Dudley and Eunice threatening to wreak havoc across the region.

Due for completion in second quarter 2022, Milburngate Phase 1 will provide 153 built-to-rent apartments, boutique cinema, a 93-bed flagship Premier Inn Hotel along with premium bars and restaurants such as Bar + Block and 53,701sq ft. of much-needed Grade A office space within One Milburngate, which will help attract up to 400 jobs to the centre of Durham City.

Construction works are being managed by Gateshead-based contractor Tolent who have been responsible for some of the region’s most famous landmarks.

Michael Rutherford, Contracts Manager for Tolent, said: “Following the removal of the tower crane, the area has taken a significant step forward and is beginning to transform from a construction site into the landmark destination that it will soon become. Whilst externally the site is well developed with all blocks now at full height and external facades almost complete; internal works are progressing at pace to ensure all buildings are ready for occupants and the wider public.

“The finished product will be a celebration of the skills and experience we have in the region and a demonstration of the ability of local companies to deliver large regeneration projects without reliance on national corporations. The outcome provides a direct benefit to the region, driving local investment and social value through all tiers of the supply chain.”

Milburngate is being developed by a joint venture partnership between Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, supported by a £120 million forward funding commitment from LaSalle Investment Management.

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “The removal of the tower crane brings the transformation of Durham’s riverside a step closer. Phase 1 of Milburngate will enhance Durham’s economic, social and cultural ambitions helping to attract premium occupiers, businesses, new residents and visitors to our area. This is an exciting time as we near the completion of this landmark destination and embark on the development of phase 2, which will bring more value to investment to Durham.”

Waddington Street Centre hits £40k minibus target

The Waddington Street Centre is celebrating the arrival of its new minibus, after it hit its 40th anniversary year fundraising target.

The Durham City-based independent North East mental health charity aimed to raise £40,000 to mark its fourth decade of offering a wide range of informal educational activities and support services based on individual needs and aspirations.

As a result of hitting its target, the centre has purchased a 17-seater Ford Transit minibus from First Class Commercials Ltd, based in Birtley, which will allow its team to organise a range of activities and trips around the North East for its members.

Throughout 2021, the centre held a range of fundraising activities, including a triathlon in Seaham, which raised more than £1,200, raffles, a pre-loved sale and a bake sale with a pop-up street café.

The Waddington Street Centre also received significant donations from businesses and organisations, including the Milburngate development on Durham City’s riverside, which has selected the centre as its chosen charity.

The centre was also the official charity of Lumiere in 2021 and received a donation of more than £5,000 raised at the light festival’s gala dinner.

Ali Lee, Centre Manager, said: “Our new minibus is really important to all of our members and we’re really pleased to receive the keys. The last couple of years have further highlighted that isolation and not having the opportunity to travel, even locally, can affect our mental health. The minibus will allow us to provide activities that boost wellbeing by visiting some of the amazing places the North East has to offer.

“We’re extremely grateful for all of the donations, including Milburngate and Lumiere, for their support and generosity in allowing us to raise enough money to buy the minibus.”

Allan Cook from Arlington Real Estate, which is developing Milburngate in a joint venture with Richardson, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to help the Waddington Street Centre hit its fundraising target to enable it to purchase the new minibus to mark its 40th anniversary, which I am sure will make a huge difference to the range of activities and services it provides in the community.

“The Waddington Street Centre does brilliant work in Durham and the surrounding area to support mental health and we wish the centre and its members well in their travels around the region.”

Waddington Street Centre Chosen As Lumiere’s charity

Waddington Street Centre has been named as the official charity partner of Lumiere 2021 and will benefit from a significant donation to its 40th anniversary appeal to raise funds for a new minibus.

The independent North East mental health charity, which offers a wide range of informal educational activities and support services based on individual needs and aspirations, will receive a donation of at least £5,000.

The donation will come from half of the proceeds of this year’s Lumiere Gala Dinner, which is being held at Ramside Hall on Wednesday 17 November, and will help the Waddington Street Centre take another step closer to its £40,000 fundraising target.

Throughout its 40th anniversary year the centre has been running a series of fundraising activities, ranging from triathlons and pre-loved item sales to bake sales and quizzes. It also has the backing of a number of local businesses and organisations, including Milburngate on Durham’s riverside, which is being developed by Arlington Real Estate and Richardson.

The Waddington Street Centre is also contributing to Lumiere by producing lanterns that will form part of one of the light festival’s landmark installations.

Members of the Centre took part in a workshop to produce the lanterns that will be added to ‘City of Lights, City of Stories’, which will transform College Green into a glowing cityscape.

The Waddington Street Centre is among a number of community groups from across County Durham working with Artichoke and installation designers The Lantern Company to build an imaginary city of illuminated streets, houses and grand architectural wonders.

Ali Lee, centre manager at The Waddington Street Centre, said: “We are exceptionally proud to be the charity partner of Lumiere. It is such an important and highly anticipated event for our city, and we’re delighted to be part of it.

The generous donation we’re receiving is amazing and will be a real help as we aim for our target to buy the minibus that will allow us to take our members on trips that will aid their mental health.

“Our staff and members really enjoyed the lantern making workshop and can’t wait to see their creations glowing on College Green.”

Created by Artichoke, the UK’s leading producers of art in the public realm and commissioned by Durham County Council with additional support from Arts Council England and a host of additional funders and supporters including Durham University, Lumiere will run from Thursday 18th - Sunday 21st November 2021.

Sarah Coop, Artichoke Development Director, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Waddington Street Centre as Lumiere’s chosen charity this year, and the opportunity to support the important work they do, as well as to have been able to offer their members the chance to take part in making one of the festival installations.”

You can find out more about the Waddington Street Centre and donate online here.

Milburngate sponsors Lumiere for fifth time

Milburngate is continuing its longstanding support of Lumiere with sponsorship of one the 2021 festival’s high-profile installations and the return of its pop-up street food market, ‘Milburngate Munch’.

The landmark development on Durham’s Riverside is sponsoring Drop Scene, by the artist Liz West which will be on display underneath Milburngate Bridge throughout Lumiere, which runs from 18 to 21 November and features 37 stunning installations throughout the city.

The title Drop Scene is taken from the theatrical meaning of the word, playing on the idea of a curtain and an unexpected vibrant “change of scenery” dividing the riverside from the underpass.

This work invites audiences to investigate their surroundings, basking in coloured light and the artwork is made up of a series of coloured corrugated panels, which creates a kaleidoscope of visuals underneath Milburngate Bridge.

Liz West is a British artist who graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 2007. West’s broad body of work encompasses site-specific installations, sculpture, and wall-based artwork.

Once visitors have experienced Drop Scene, they can make their way to the ‘Milburngate Munch’ pop-up food market, which returns this year after proving so popular in 2019. Located at Milburngate next to the Radisson Hotel and the Penny Ferry Bridge on the River Wear, Milburngate Munch will be open to visitors throughout the light festival.

‘Milburngate Munch’ will bring together a collection of stalls operated by specially selected North East traders serving a range of quality hot food and drinks.

Complementing the wider food and drink offering across Durham City available to visitors during Lumiere, ‘Milburngate Munch’ is part of the continued support of the festival by the developers of the living, working and leisure destination, Arlington Real Estate and Richardson.

The Milburngate development team has been a key supporter of Lumiere since the very first festival in 2009 and Arlington Real Estate founder Allan Cook is both Chair of the Lumiere Development Board and also a Trustee of Artichoke, the production company responsible for delivering the festival.

Allan said: “We are proud to have played a part in bringing Lumiere to Durham all those years ago and seeing it go from strength to strength and I am keener than ever to help Artichoke make this Lumiere a success as it will bring some much-needed light and joy to the city following the challenges of the last 18 months. It will be wonderful to see the city glowing again with the vibrancy of excited visitors and of course the amazing installations.”

He added: “Its great to also bring back ‘Milburngate Munch’, which proved to be exceptionally popular with visitors to Lumiere in 2019. It was a hive of activity throughout the festival, and I am sure it will again prove to be a welcoming location for visitors to grab a drink and a bite to eat as they tour of the city.”

Helen Marriage, Artistic Director and CEO of Artichoke said: “It is thanks to the incredible support of County Durham’s business community, alongside Lumiere commissioners Durham County Council and the support of Arts Council England, Durham University and all our sponsors, that we are able to return to Durham once again to produce Lumiere. This year more than ever, the festival will not only be a moment to enjoy the spectacle and wonder of Durham transformed by light art, but to reflect on the last 18 months and celebrate life and renewal.”

Triathlon Success For Waddington Street Centre

A group of fundraisers have swum, cycled and run to bring the cashing rolling in to help fund a minibus for the Waddington Street Centre in Durham.

The independent North East mental health charity is marking its 40th anniversary with a series of money-generating activities and events to raise £40,000 for the vital transport.

A team of keen athletes from the centre has taken part in a long-distance triathlon in Seaham, which generated £1,526 towards the appeal, which so far stands at more than £22,000.

The 40km course comprised a 1km swim in the harbour, a 29km cycle ride around the outer limits of the town, and a 10km run from the harbour and back.

Assistant manager Steve Wakefield, finance officer Claire McGrother and centre member David Davies undertook the running stage while Trustees David Shipman, Jeff Dean and his partner Annette Morris, and David Shipman tackled the cycling leg with housing co-ordinator Sam Mason and her friends Georgina Fuller and Maria Davies doing the honours in the swimming section.

The weather was kind – being calm and sunny – and did not add a further level of difficulty to completing the tough challenge.

Other events planned to help the Waddington Street Centre achieve its fundraising target include a sponsored walk and an entertainment and quiz evening in October, which will feature, among other activities, a chilli eating challenge.

Centre Manager Ali Lee said: “We chose Seaham for this fundraising activity as it is a location close to the hearts of centre members, who love a trip to the seaside.

“Future visits to the coast and outings to other places will continue to be possible with the purchase of a new minibus.

“These are an important part of what the centre can offer as many of the people we support are socially isolated and can struggle to use public transport.

“We are pleased that our money-raising endeavours have attracted the support of the public and local businesses, who appreciate how getting out and about can significantly improve people’s mental wellbeing.”

The Waddington Street Centre is working with a number of local businesses to help with the fundraising, including the developers of Milburngate, which in conjunction with contractor Tolent, funded and completed a makeover of the centre during lockdown.

Allan Cook, managing director of Arlington Real Estate, the joint venture developer of Milburngate, said: “Competing in a triathlon is no mean feat and the Waddington Street Centre team, which took on this tough challenge, deserve high praise.

“The centre is doing sterling work by providing a wide range of informal education activities and support services to people in the surrounding community.

“Arlington Real Estate and Milburngate are proud to support such a fantastic facility.”

The centre has set up a fundraising page where people can make donations here: www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/Waddys40thAnniversary

Royal Visit For Milburngate

Milburngate developer Allan Cook welcomed His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO to share his passion for contemporary architecture by taking a tour of the £120m first phase of the regeneration project in Durham City.

His Royal Highness, who practiced as an architect, visited the six-acre living, working and leisure destination, which is currently under construction on the city’s riverside, where he unveiled a commemoration stone to mark his visit.

On arrival, the Duke was greeted by representatives from the Arlington Richardson Development Partnership, which is developing Milburngate, contractor Tolent and key members of the project team, including the architects behind its design.

Phase one, which includes a boutique cinema, 92-bed Hotel, 153 apartments, 53,000 ft office building along with premium bars and restaurants including Bar + Block, has been sensitively designed to compliment its setting whist respecting its location within a UNESCO world heritage city.

Architects FaulknerBrowns has also designed Milburngate to incorporate high-quality public realm from which to enjoy stunning new views of the city’s riverside and historic castle and cathedral as well as providing a new direct route to Durham railway station.

Milburngate continues the high-quality regeneration of Durham’s riverside, which was set by the developers with the construction of HM Passport Office and National Savings & Investment facility at Freemans Reach on the opposite bank of the River Wear.

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “We were truly honoured to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester to see the great progress we are making in delivering Milburngate during these challenging times.

“Maximising the economic and social benefits this fabulous riverside site will bring to both Durham City and the wider North East has taken some real architectural, construction and engineering skill, which His Royal Highness, as an experienced architect, really appreciated.”

'Milburngate Talks' Offices

With many companies considering the future of their workplaces, we discuss how the office market is responding successfully to the changing needs of occupiers and their staff.

In this latest episode of Milburngate Talks, hosted by Jamie Collis from Recognition PR, we're joined by Greg Davison from Cushman & Wakefield, Steve Dobson from Overbury, and iMpeC's managing director Neil McMillan.

Waddington Street Centre To Raise £40k at 40!

The Waddington Street Centre in Durham has announced it is to mark its 40th anniversary with a series of fundraising activities to raise £40,000 to fund a much-needed new minibus.

The independent North East mental health charity, which offers a wide range of informal educational activities and support services based on individual needs and aspirations, is kicking off the next stage of activities by hosting a week-long bake sale from 28th June with cakes and other items being made and donated by staff and volunteers.

Local people will be able to enjoy their sweet treats at a pop-up seating area in front of the centre.

Having already raised almost £5,000 towards its target, The Waddington Street Centre team is planning a number of other projects including a Pre-Loved Sale at the next-door United Reform Church in August and is appealing for donations for the event, which will also help promote sustainability.

Businesses are also encouraged to support the fundraising challenge with donations of goods and services being requested from organisations across the area for a raffle to be held later in the year.

The Waddington Street Centre is also working with a number of local business supporters on fundraising initiatives, including the developers of Milburngate, which in conjunction with contractor Tolent, funded and completed a makeover of the centre during lockdown.

One of their bigger fundraising events will see a team of keen athletes from the centre attempt to complete a long-distance triathlon, which will take place in Seaham in September.

Assistant manager Steve Wakefield, finance officer, Claire McGrother and centre member David Davies will take on the running leg of the challenge, while Trustee Jeff Dean and his partner Annette Morris will tackle the cycling before handing over to housing coordinator Sam Mason who will complete the swimming leg.

The team has selected Seaham as the location for the triathlon because it is a special place for members of The Waddington Street Centre who enjoy visiting the coast.

Getting out and about can have a significant positive impact on people’s mental health and, with the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, the opportunity to arrange more trips away from the centre after a year of lockdowns is at the heart of the fundraising efforts and the need for a new minibus.

Centre manager Ali Lee, who is also a professional artist and will be selling small pieces of artwork for a suggested donation of £40 per piece on her social media pages throughout July, August and September, said: “Everyone involved in the centre is really excited about this fundraising campaign, which will mark our 40th anniversary of supporting local people.

“We’re hoping to have a lot of fun on our way to hitting our £40,000 target and are grateful for all the donations, fundraising and support we’re getting that will help us buy a new minibus.

“Many of the people who are supported by the centre are socially isolated and struggle to use public transport and, as a result, travelling to and from social or educational locations can be challenging.

“A minibus would be a wonderful addition to our resources. It would allow our members to get out and about with supportive, like-minded people, and would help improve their mental health by increasing their self-esteem and confidence while alleviating their feelings of social isolation.”

Allan Cook, managing director of Arlington Real Estate, the joint venture developer of Milburngate, said: “Waddington Street Centre has been serving vulnerable people within the community for four decades, which is a milestone worth celebrating.

“We’re really keen to continue our support for the centre and have some exciting plans for a unique fundraising event later in the summer, which we’re keeping under wraps for now, but will hopefully contribute greatly to the overall fundraising challenge.”

The centre has set up a fundraising page where people can make donations at:

www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/Waddys40thAnniversary

For more information about the centre visit: https://www.waddingtoncentre.co.uk/.

'Milburngate Talks' Retail & Leisure

As the high street continues its recovery, we discuss the effects of the pandemic on the retail and leisure industry and how property enquiries in this sector are seeing a strong resurgence.

In this episode, hosted by Jamie Collis from Recognition PR, we're joined by retail and leisure specialist Nick Ferris from JLL and iMpeC's managing director Neil McMillan.

4,000 tonne steel frame completed

Phase One of Milburngate is on course for completion in the first quarter of 2022. The latest milestone in the construction of the £120m Arlington Richardson development has been achieved with the completion of its structural steel frame.

Comprising of 40,000 individual pieces of steel weighing a combined 3,800 tonnes, the key structures that will make up Phase One of Milburngate are now complete and visible on Durham City’s riverside.

Following a 54-week build programme, the steel frames of the office building, hotel, boutique cinema, retail and leisure units, as well as the three apartment blocks, are now in place ready for external finishing and interior fit-out to take place.

The structural frame, which utilises 20,000 welded shear studs, is strengthened with 5,500 square metres of pre-cast concrete beams and supports over 100 flights of stairs through the development.

More than 30 local operatives successfully delivered the steel work project with minimal delays to programme, despite the need to adhere to strict Covid safety guidelines including social distancing.

Led by Milburngate’s main contractor Tolent, it was delivered in conjunction with County Durham-based constructional steel company Finley Structures and structural engineers Atkins.

Allan Cook, managing director at Arlington said: “Erecting 40,000 pieces of steel in this timeframe in a sensitive riverside location such as Milburngate has its challenges, but to achieve this against the backdrop of a worldwide pandemic is testament to the expertise of our construction team and strength of their supply chain.

“This is an important moment in the development of Milburngate, not only as a construction milestone, but also in terms of attracting new occupiers. They can now visit site and see first-hand the unique position Milburngate occupies on the riverside and experience the fabulous views we have created of the river and World Heritage site peninsular.

“When they visit Milburngate they can now appreciate the important role it will play as a living, working and leisure destination in attracting people to Durham from across the region and beyond. This is certainly paying dividends with potential occupiers as interest in Milburngate has grown significantly in the first part of the year.”

Michael Rutherford, project director for Tolent, said: "The completion of the steel frame programme is a significant milestone for the project and what you can now see on site is the best visual representation so far of just what a fantastic development this is going to be for Durham.

“As the majority of the structures on site are now weather tight, we are progressing with internal fit out works of the apartment blocks, hotel and leisure and retail units. We recently passed 750,000 hours on site and have a workforce over 300 people which we continue to manage with health, safety and wellbeing as our number one priority."

Another step in the right direction

Milburngate has taken a step towards enhancing pedestrian connectivity in Durham with the installation of a brand-new suspended staircase, which will create a direct route into the development and the riverside from Durham railway station.

Located in the north west corner of Milburngate and accessed directly from Framwellgate Peth, the new steps sit on top of a raised steel frame, which was installed following a three-month substructure programme including excavation, in-situ concrete structures and piles.

Installed over two days, around 80 tonnes of pre-cast concrete was carefully positioned into place using a specialist mobile crane designed to operate in a confined space and able to manoeuvre the 14 individual pieces up to their final resting place some 54m from the ground, negotiating obstacles including the trees on the bank at the rear of Milburngate on their way.

This new staircase will provide seamless pedestrian access to Milburngate, connecting the development with the railway station while offering uninterrupted views across the River Wear towards the spire of St Nic’s church.

As they arrive in the public square at the heart of Milburngate, office occupiers, residents and visitors will have an outstanding view of the church and the World Heritage site’s Durham Cathedral and Castle.

Over the coming months, the staircase will be completed with a mix of soft and hard landscaping, which will be finished with the installation of illuminated handrails.

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, which is developing Milburngate in a joint venture with Richardson, said: “This staircase has always been a fundamental part of the design of Milburngate, connecting the railway station to the heart of the city.

“We always envisioned a view of St. Nic’s Spire framed on each side by the development, which as you descend opens up stunning views of the cathedral and castle; standing at the top of the steps we can now see the first part of that vision coming to life.”

Paul Salkeld, Project Manager from main contractor Tolent, said: “This is another important milestone for the scheme as Milburngate continues to take shape. It was a challenge to complete the install in such a tight area, which included the treeline either side of the staircase location, but our groundworker, specialist lifting team, together with the Tolent project team, expertly handled the project and ensured a successful completion.”

Tolent score highly at Milburngate

Gateshead-based contractor Tolent has cemented its reputation as a considerate contractor after receiving a certificate of excellence from the national Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS).

Presented to the team on site at the £120m Milburngate development in Durham, the scores given from its recent CCS inspection show Tolent is at the forefront of industry best practice, demonstrating the very highest level of achievement of the Scheme’s Code.

Covering areas including site appearance, community, environment, safety and workforce, special mention was given to the team in its response to dealing with COVID-19.

Welfare facilities have doubled on site to facilitate social distancing for upwards of 200 subcontractors and staff. Along with thorough daily cleaning routines, additional entrances and exits have been put in place around the site along with extensive one-way systems and multiple sanitising stations.

With a commitment to building and nurturing a local supply chain, it was noted that 73% of the site spend is within a 25-mile radius of the development.  

David Thompson, regional director for Tolent, said: “This is fantastic recognition for project director Michael Rutherford and his team on site, who work tirelessly to uphold our reputation as a considerate contractor.

“At the start of the year the team were facilitating numerous site visits for schools, colleges, universities and local business and residents and although we’re having to adapt our community engagement plans, we’re looking at new ways to engage including developing virtual lesson plans for schools.”

The site reached a significant milestone earlier this month with the completion of the steelwork for the new Premier Inn hotel.

Along with the 92-bed hotel, phase one of the development will also feature a mix of premium leisure operators, such as Everyman Cinema, along with 153 built-to-rent apartments and the high specification office building, One Milburngate.

Ian Beaumont, Project Director for Milburngate, which is being developed by a joint venture of Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, said: “The Considerate Constructors Scheme forms a crucial part of our Social Value Policy at Milburngate and Tolent perfectly represent our ambition for the development to become a valuable part of the local community, not only when its finished, but throughout its construction.  Achieving this recognition from the Considerate Constructors Scheme demonstrates how they are going above and beyond their role as our construction partner and playing an important role in the community.”

The Considerate Constructors Scheme is a not-for-profit, independent organisation founded to raise standards in the construction industry. Construction sites, companies and suppliers voluntarily register with the Scheme and agree to abide by the Code of Considerate Practice, designed to encourage best practice beyond statutory requirements.

To find out more about Tolent visit www.tolent.co.uk

NS&I worker marks retirement at Milburngate

The team at Milburngate has helped a former employee of National Savings & Investments (NS&I) mark her retirement with a trip down memory lane.

Gill Richardson from Newton Hall, Durham, has spent the last 40 years working for NS&I, 35 of them based at Milburngate House, which used to be located on the site of the Milburngate scheme currently under construction on the riverside in Durham City.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, Gill, who is married with three children, hasn’t been able to celebrate her retirement in the usual fashion with a party. However, she wanted to take her career full circle by returning to the place where it all started in 1980.

She joined NS&I in the Holdings Files Department and progressed through the organisation working in the Death Claims and Complaints departments before reaching her retirement. Along with her colleagues, she left Milburngate House in 2015, prior to its demolition, moving across the River Wear to Freemans Reach to brand new offices, which were also built by the joint venture partners behind Milburngate, Arlington Real Estate and Richardson.

When Milburngate House closed Gill was involved with arranging reunions for ex-NS&I staff that worked in the building and plans to help organise retirement parties when possible for those colleagues who celebrations have also been impacted by the pandemic.

Gill was given a tour of the Milburngate development by Tolent project manager Michael Rutherford and presented with a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine to toast her retirement.

She saw up close how Milburngate is taking shape with the construction of the 92-bed Premier Inn hotel, three apartment blocks, which will feature 153 apartments, and the first of the retail and leisure units, which will include the Everyman Cinema.

Gill Richardson said: “The restrictions we have to live with at the moment mean that I can’t celebrate my retirement surrounded by my colleagues of the past 40 years, but I wanted to do something special.

“The Milburngate site is so precious to me as I spent so much of my working life there and it was great to visit the development and I can’t wait to come and visit the cinema and some of the bars and restaurants when it’s finished in 2022.”

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “Gill has enjoyed an impressive career with NS&I and we were delighted to welcome her to Milburngate to help her celebrate this amazing milestone. She is a great example of the wonderful people we have in our city and we all wish her the very best in her retirement.”

Delivering Social Value

Delivering social value is an essential part of any successful regeneration project, which is why where we’re committed to creating a brand new place at Milburngate for the long-term benefit of the communities it will serve.

Milburngate is being delivered by the Arlington Richardson Development Partnership which has created a successful reputation for delivering social value through their development of strategically important regeneration projects across the North East of England; all of which have attracted significant inward investment, created extensive employment and established new communities.

Not only this, their proactive support of the arts and culture is demonstrated through their long-term commitment to the Lumiere Festival, as well as their continued contribution to local charities.

Now, working closely with main contractor Tolent, the partnership is focused on continuing to drive social value at Milburngate, where a wide range of delivered and planned initiatives are helping make a significant difference to the community in which they operate.

All of this activity is driven by four guiding principles, which help inform the strategy, outcomes, and measures of success to ensure we maximise the positive socio-economic impact and value Milburngate has on the communities it serves.

Delivering Sustainability

We are committed to ensuring Milburngate is designed and delivered with sustainability in mind. By responding to the needs of the people it serves and the environment in which it sits, we can ensure Milburngate becomes a place where the success of the local community is driven by a wide range of environmental, socio-economic and wellbeing benefits.

Creating Opportunity

Milburngate will set a new benchmark of social opportunity for the city. From the physical spaces and connections on-site, to the wider economic and job creation benefits we are helping deliver, our ambition is for Milburngate to be recognised as an inclusive place where the necessary opportunities for people to succeed and flourish are engrained in its very fabric.

Building Community

People sit at the heart of any successful place and Milburngate is no different. This is why we have taken an integrated approach to engaging with the local and wider community from the outset. In doing so, we are building positive and lasting relationships that will underpin a place where people have the networks and support to truly thrive.

Supporting Culture

We understand the socio-economic value of culture is vital to the identity of place and the positive impact it has on those who experience it. By supporting world-class cultural activity within the city, Milburngate is dedicated to playing a major role in enriching local people’s lives, as well as driving economic growth and community cohesion.

You can view and download Milburngate’s Social Value Policy in full here.

Milburngate Milestone for Premier Inn

Milburngate has reached a significant milestone in the development of its Durham City centre scheme with the completion of the steelwork for the new Premier Inn hotel.

The hotel forms a key element of phase one of the living, working and leisure destination, which is due for completion in 2022.

The structure gives an indication of the outstanding views from the hotel of Durham’s riverside and the UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the cathedral and castle.

Containing 740 tonnes of British steel, supplied by North East based Finley Structures Ltd, the framework of the 92-bed room hotel has been completed by its sub-contractors and paves the way for the next stage of development, which includes the installation of windows and weather tightening before internal works begin before Christmas.

Joining the Premier Inn hotel at Milburngate will be Whitbread’s Bar + Block Steakhouse restaurant. Together the hotel and restaurant are expected to create up to 75 jobs in Durham City on opening.

With 15 restaurants across the UK, Bar + Block is an informal all-day dining restaurant with a focus on high-quality steaks. The contemporary restaurant design features a large open kitchen, spectacular central bar and rustic design elements including timbers, exposed brick walls and warm lighting.

The Premier Inn and Bar + Block restaurant will take their place alongside a number of other premium leisure operators, as well as an Everyman Cinema, at Milburngate, which is being delivered by a joint venture partnership between Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, supported by a £120 million forward funding commitment from LaSalle Investment Management.

Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “This is an exciting moment for Milburngate as we are really starting to see phase one take shape with the completion of the steelwork of the Premier Inn and the three apartment blocks which will see 153 build-to-rent apartments delivered right in the heart of the city.

“The Premier Inn and Bar & Block restaurant is an excellent fit for Milburngate, and we are really looking forward to completion of this phase of the development, which will create much needed additional hotel rooms for our city.”

Richard Aldread, head of construction for Premier Inn in the north of England, Scotland, and Ireland, said: “Milburngate is a fantastic development for Premier Inn to be part of in Durham.

“The new Premier Inn hotel will give our guests a prime location to stay in the city centre, a stone’s throw away from Durham’s historical colleges, and with lots of on-site leisure options to enjoy during their stay.

“We’re confident the Premier Inn hotel and Bar & Block restaurant will trade very well once we open our doors to guests and diners in 2022 and we can’t wait to become part of the community when we do.”

David Thompson, regional director for Tolent, said: "The team continue to make great progress across the site and works to the external facade of the Premier Inn will begin in the next few weeks. Following this, internal works can start to begin creating the individual rooms, corridors and restaurant in the period leading up to Christmas.

To find out more about Premier Inn, or to book a room, please visit their website here.

'Milburngate Talks' Progress

In the latest episode of our ‘Milburngate Talks’ series, we catch up with our very own Allan Cook who gives us an update on the great progress we’re making on-site.