FUNDING plans for a major new business park in Durham City have been revealed.

Durham County Council has secured £6 million from the Government’s Getting Building Fund, which aims to deliver jobs, skills and infrastructure across the country.

The funding will cover half the cost of the first building on the proposed Aykley Heads Business Park, with the local authority paying the other £6 million.

Once completed, it is hoped the project will create up to 300 jobs while acting as a catalyst for the wider masterplan and stimulating over £150 million of private sector investment.

Councillor Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: “I am delighted that we have secured Government funding to cover half of the cost of the first new building at the proposed Aykley Heads Business Park. It is clear that the Government has seen the potential of the site and its excellent locational advantages and the tremendous environment that already exists.

“With an uncertain business market as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, we believe these plans will stimulate private investment, secure job opportunities and support businesses, helping to transform the county and establish Durham as a jobs hub within the North-East.”

The three-storey building will offer 3,500 square metres of office space, providing flexible accommodation to either single or multiple employers in an accessible location close to the East Coast Main Line and other public transport, as well as cycling routes.

It will also offer more than 60 car parking spaces.

James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, which is supporting the proposed park, said: “It is fantastic that the Government has agreed to provide funding towards this exciting development at Aykley Heads.

“It’s a big step in the vision to establish a dynamic business park in the North-East becoming a reality.”

“With superb access to the national road and rail network, an internationally renowned university and a World Heritage Site, this site is exceptional.”