Willmott Dixon has completed construction of The Light, a £17 million cultural and regeneration scheme in Durham, with the building now handed over to Durham County Council ahead of its opening later this year.
Delivered via the SCAPE framework, the project involved the extensive redevelopment of a former museum and gallery building, previously home to the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Museum and Durham Art Gallery.
The structure was stripped back to its core and largely rebuilt to create a modern, multi-purpose venue capable of hosting large-scale exhibitions and public events.
Major construction works enable modern exhibition and community space
The redevelopment has introduced new internal layouts and infrastructure to support exhibitions, events and community use, while retaining elements of the building’s historic significance.
A dedicated gallery space will continue to house the DLI collection, preserving links to the site’s military heritage.
The venue has also been designed to accommodate conferences, private events and public use, alongside a café and external areas integrated into the surrounding landscape at Aykley Heads.
Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “It’s been fantastic to witness the transformation of this building into a venue that will not only provide enriching experiences for our residents, but will attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, strengthening the county’s tourism offer and boosting our economy.
“With a quality build completed thanks to Willmott Dixon, we can begin to kit out the building’s interior.
“This will include establishing a permanent DLI gallery to help bring our region’s proud military history to new audiences.”
Regeneration project supports wider Durham innovation district plans
The Light is located within Aykley Heads and is expected to play a role in the wider Durham Innovation District, acting as a cultural and community hub within the area’s long-term development strategy.
Nick Corrigan, North East Construction Director at Willmott Dixon, said: “Having delivered a number of regeneration projects across Durham and with more to come, we’re pleased to hand over The Light to Durham County Council.
“We look forward to seeing it become a vibrant destination, welcoming people from across the city and beyond to enjoy its revitalised facilities.
“Our project team and supply chain partners have created a place that will bring communities together, supporting local activity, culture and economic growth.”
Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE, added: “It’s great to see the rebuild of The Light complete. Through the SCAPE Construction Framework, we worked with Willmott Dixon to deliver time and cost savings for Durham County Council.
“The project has transformed the venue, offering enhanced modern facilities, whilst retaining its rich history and heritage.”
The project adds to Willmott Dixon’s portfolio of cultural and regeneration schemes across the UK, including recently completed arts, entertainment and visitor developments.
