AN appeal has been launched into a decision not to grant listed status to one of Durham’s most controversial concrete buildings.

Dunelm House is under threat of demolition following Durham University’s announcement that it wants to replace it with a new performance space.

Last month Culture Secretary Karen Bradley made a decision not to list the award winning 1960s building and said she was minded to approve an application by the university for a certificate of immunity from listing.

But architectural campaign group the Twentieth Century Society has now asked for a formal review to be carried out.

Clare Price, senior conservation advisor for the society, said: “We think the minister should reconsider the reason not to list Dunelm House.

“We consider the issue she has ruled on are ones of repair and not design. The state of repair is not a valid consideration when deciding whether a building is listable.”

Durham University says it would cost £14.7million to repair the building and redesign it to accommodate other uses.

Ms Price added: “The fact is Dunelm House is still standing 50 years later. If it had fundamental design flaws that wouldn’t be the case.

“We think it’s a fantastic building and Historic England has recommended it should be listed more than once.

“We think this has been blocked for political reasons rather than anything to do with the building.”

Designed by Richard Raines, Dunelm House connects to Ove Arup’s Grade I-listed Kingsgate Bridge over the River Wear.

The proposal is part of Durham University’s plans to redevelop its buildings on New Elvet to accommodate several arts and humanity departments

as well as a new performance space and cultural facility.

Meanwhile the students union would be moved the lower Mountjoy area, off South Road.

A university spokesperson said: “Given that Dunelm House is not able to accommodate new uses or to endure without very considerable investment in its redesign and repair, estimated at £14.7m, the university considers that the practical and responsible decision would be for us to work with statutory bodies and local residents to achieve the replacement of this building as part of the comprehensive redevelopment of the university estate on New Elvet.

“This in turn will be a significant step in delivering the university strategy and would transform the urban landscape in this part of the city.”