Durham Council unveils plans to create 30,000 jobs and 25,000 homes by 2035

Durham Council has announced a 15-year plan to create 30,000 new jobs and build 25,000 new homes in the county.

The strategy was announced in conjunction with Business Durham, the economic development arm of the Council, at a Durham Property and Construction lunch at Ramside Hall this month.

The event showcased the many developments throughout the county, including:

• NETPark — the region’s only science park
• Jade Business Park — a £75 million manufacturing and distribution site
• Integra 61 — a logistics hub for businesses
• Aycliffe Business Park — a business park that will employ 3280 people
• Aykley Heads — a business park that will provide 6,000 jobs and £400 million for the local economy

The plan will also aim to raise County Durham’s business profile across the UK.

During the lunch, attendees were guided through the ambitious plans by representatives from Durham County Council and Business Durham.

Councillor Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: “We have a lot to look forward to in County Durham.

“Through the County Durham Plan, we aim to make the county one of the most attractive business locations, not just in the north, but in the country.

“We will be working closely with businesses and all of our partners to achieve this dynamic future for our communities.”

Terry Collins, chief executive of Durham County Council, said: “Our vision to create 30,000 jobs over the next 15 years will create huge long-term benefits for the county.

“By providing these exciting opportunities, we will be able to retain young people in County Durham with the prospect of better jobs and opportunities for generations to come.

Sarah Slaven, managing director of Business Durham, said: “It is a really exciting time for County Durham and we’re delighted to be working closely with colleagues in the council to support their ambitious strategy for creating more jobs by supporting our local businesses to grow and thrive.

“With the development of sites such as NETPark, Jade Business Park and Aycliffe Business Park we’re looking forward to attracting businesses which can help bring investment not just into the county, but the region as a whole.”

“Every new company can make a real impact on our local economy and help boost job creation.”