The Story plots national award success

A County Durham cultural venue has been shortlisted for a string of national awards following its first year in operation.

The Story, based in the restored Mount Oswald House near Durham City, has been highly commended by both the Constructing Excellence North East (CENE) and the regional Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) awards. 

It will now progress to the national RTPI finals and has also made the shortlist for a Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) award in the Refurbishment/Revitalisation category.

The venue was delivered by Kier and Durham County Council, combining the restoration of the Grade II-listed manor with a contemporary extension to house County Durham’s archives and a public visitor centre. 

Steve Lynn, Kier operations director, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have delivered this unique building for Durham County Council and the local community. 

“The Story is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through true collaboration to bring a once unused building back into public use.”

Over its first year, The Story has welcomed almost 124,000 visitors, engaged 1672 children in its educational sessions, hosted more than 700 weddings and has granted more than 2100 notices of marriage or civil partnership.

It also serves as the home of the County Registration Service, having registered 2227 births, and holds five historic collections, including six miles of archives charting 900 years of County Durham’s history and the entire Durham Light Infantry collection and archive.

Councillor Lyndsey Fox, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, added: “We are absolutely delighted at the recognition The Story has had in just its first year of opening. 

“A lot of work went into the design and concept of this venue to ensure we created a fresh and modern attraction for the people of County Durham and beyond, while also honouring the building’s original heritage.

“The Story has already helped thousands of people discover more about their personal histories and connect with our region’s heritage in new and exciting ways, and we look forward to seeing more success from the venue as we build on and grow its offer.”

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