Public consultation is now open on updated plans for the redevelopment of Prince Bishops Place in Durham City Centre, ahead of a new planning application expected later this month.
Planning permission was originally granted in July 2024 for a mixed-use scheme featuring retail and leisure space, a new public square, and purpose-built student accommodation. The updated proposals are part of a broader strategy to secure the long-term future of the shopping centre and boost the overall vibrancy of Durham’s city centre.
Since consent was secured, further detailed design work has been carried out to ensure the scheme can be delivered in the current market. As a result, and following continued dialogue with Durham County Council, a small number of refinements are now being proposed which require a new planning application. The changes do not alter the overall vision for the approved scheme or its core components and public benefits, such as the opening up of new views of the River Wear and improved pedestrian linkages through the site.
The revised proposals include the removal of the previously approved hotel element, which was made challenging due to its complex configuration around the existing Boots store. The space will instead be used for additional student accommodation, taking the total provision to around 500 rooms. This approach is intended to support Durham’s university population while helping to increase footfall and economic activity in the city centre.
A public drop-in consultation event will take place on Thursday 5 February, from 5.30pm to 8.00pm, in Unit 10 (between Boots Opticians and Clarks) at Prince Bishops Place.
Members of the project team will be available to answer questions and explain the proposed changes. Information is also being made available via the Prince Bishops Place website at https://www.princebishopsplace.info/development-update
James Taylor, Regional Director at Citrus Group, said:
“Since planning permission was granted, we have continued to work through the detailed design to ensure the scheme is deliverable. The proposed amendments are modest and form a routine part of the development process, allowing the improvements to move forward confidently on an investment that secures the long-term future of Prince Bishops Place and its key role in Durham City Centre.”
Further changes include updated design treatment to the riverside elevation of the development, following detailed design work, along with refinements on the Leazes Road side. A number of other more minor design changes are also proposed, none of which affect the wider regeneration plans for the scheme or the delivery of the flagship new public space overlooking the River Wear.
The revised scheme will also continue to deliver around 32 commercial units on the high street supporting a mix of national and independent retailers, alongside student accommodation above retail units and the multi-storey car park. The existing car park will remain and the new public square overlooking the River Wear and Elvet Bridge will provide new space for public activity and events.
Robert Dibden, Planning Director at Lichfields, said:
“The revised application reflects the work needed to transition the scheme from planning approval to delivery. The proposals maintain the benefits of the consented scheme, including enhanced retail space, improved public areas and investment into the city centre”.
The new planning application is expected to be submitted to Durham County Council by the end of February and the decision will be made later in the year. Once submitted, the proposals will be available to view via the council’s planning portal and comments on the revised scheme are welcomed.
