It gives me much pleasure to praise our county and applaud progress made by the newly formed Joint Administration, of which I am a part.
As a County, Durham has been shortlisted for 2025 city of culture. We have much to celebrate as one of Britain’s most scenic and historic counties. From Durham City with its castle and Cathedral perched above the River Wear to the High Force waterfall on the River Tees, we have much to shout about.
Aycliffe Business Park is a fantastic employer of thousands of workers producing a range of products from car parts to semi-conductors, trains, white goods, plastics and a myriad of other products.
Transport also has the Northeast firmly at its hub. The railway from Newton Aycliffe can take us up into the Dales, east to the Coast and a short connection to the East Coast mainline connects us north and south to London or Scotland.
When out campaigning, a year or so ago, one of the topics brought up on the doorstep was the demise of the Durham Light Infantry Museum at Aykley Heads and its relocation to a warehouse in Spennymoor. Many residents felt much aggrieved at what they saw as disrespect to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
A common thread was, that remains of relatives had been scattered at the site over many years and fear remained that a desecration would take place. I am proud to announce the following.
One of my commitments was to campaign for the re-opening of the DLI museum. I’m delighted to confirm that the DLI Museum will re-open – and be even bigger and better.
The proposal agreed by the Joint Administration includes:
• A complete transformation of the existing building, increasing the internal area by 96%
• A dedicated display space for the DLI Collection
• An increase in the amount of flexible space for education and events
• Development of a contemplative garden
• Re-opening of a larger café and additional space for a new restaurant
• Additional space included for an artist in residence, creative hub and bookable meeting rooms
A promise delivered.
Cllr Ken Robson