Muse, Durham County Council, and Durham University have signed a collaboration agreement to accelerate the development of the Aykley Heads site as a hub for investment and innovation.

Aykley Heads, designed by Ryder Architecture, forms a central element of the Durham Innovation District in the historic core of Durham. The site covers approximately 37 acres, while the wider Innovation District spans around 153 acres, incorporating major institutions such as Durham University Business School. The development is approved for up to 400,000 square feet of commercial floorspace.

The innovation district unites key “Triple Helix” stakeholders — the public sector, academia, and industry — to collaborate on growth and development. It is already home to prominent organisations such as Durham University Business School, the North East Chamber of Commerce, Durham Constabulary, Waterstones, and local authority offices located in Salvus House and Corten House. The area also features The Rivergreen Centre, which is being renovated to serve as the new headquarters for the Council, replacing County Hall, which is slated for demolition. With its proximity to key road links and the nearby railway station, the site is expected to attract strong investor interest. The North East Combined Authority has committed £9.2 million to the initiative as part of its efforts to stimulate economic growth and expand opportunities for the region’s residents.