Kynren expansion set to drive town's growth

A County Durham heritage and tourism destination is set for significant expansion under new plans to boost visitor numbers, extend its offer and drive long-term economic growth.

The Auckland Project, in collaboration with 11Arches, has submitted a planning application to further develop Bishop Auckland’s cultural and tourism offer. 

Central to the plans are three new large-scale productions at Kynren – The Storied Lands, designed to expand the attraction into a year-round destination.

Two indoor shows, Conquest of the Seas and Robin Hood, will introduce all-weather performance spaces, increasing capacity and extending the visitor season. 

A third outdoor spectacle, The Lone Centurion, will build on Kynren’s reputation for immersive live storytelling.

The proposals also include Binchester Earth, a new heritage experience at the nearby Roman Fort, aimed at strengthening the area’s historical and educational appeal.

Together, the developments could attract more than one million visitors annually and contribute close to £50 million to the economy by the early 2030s, supporting jobs and skills development across the region.

Anna Warnecke, chief executive of Kynren, said: “Kynren – The Storied Lands is just the beginning. 

“As we prepare to open this summer, we are already looking ahead to how we continue to grow and evolve the experience for our audiences.

“These new shows represent a major step forward in our ambition — allowing us to tell even more powerful stories, on a greater scale, and for more people throughout the year.

“From large-scale indoor productions to breathtaking outdoor spectacle, this next phase will build on everything that makes Kynren unique, while creating a destination that visitors will want to return to time and again.

“It’s an incredibly exciting moment for the whole team, our volunteers, and for everyone who has supported Kynren’s journey so far.”

Jane Ruffer, chief executive of The Auckland Project, added: “We are delighted to reach this milestone, this development is key to unlocking the town’s potential.  

“It will support jobs, skills and opportunities for local people, and ensure Bishop Auckland grows as a vibrant, sustainable visitor destination.”

Backed largely by private investment, the plans build on nearly £400 million already committed to transforming Bishop Auckland into a leading cultural destination.

Shaun Hope, chair of the Bishop Auckland Stronger Towns Board, added: “This marks another major step forward in delivering the long-term vision for Bishop Auckland. 

“The strength of the partnership between organisations, alongside strong public support, demonstrates the confidence in the town’s future and the positive impact this investment will bring.”

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