Durham cultural venue ready to shine

A County Durham arts and cultural venue is set to open this summer following the “transformation” of a former museum and gallery into a modern visitor attraction.

Durham County Council’s new venue, The Light, has reached a key milestone after the main construction phase was completed and the building handed back following a two-year transformation.

Previously home to the Durham Light Infantry Museum and Durham Art Gallery, the site has been extensively rebuilt to create a modern, multipurpose cultural space capable of hosting world-class exhibitions.

The venue will combine art, history and science, while retaining its military heritage through a dedicated DLI gallery featuring artefacts, documents and film.

Alongside exhibition space, The Light will include conference and events facilities, a café and landscaped outdoor areas designed for visitors and community use.

Located at Aykley Heads, it will act as a focal point within Durham’s emerging Innovation District, supporting wider regeneration ambitions.

Councillor Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “It’s been fantastic to witness the transformation of this building into a venue that will not only provide enriching experiences for our residents, but will attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, strengthening the county’s tourism offer and boosting our economy.

“With construction now complete, we can begin to kit out the building’s interior. 

“This will include establishing a permanent DLI gallery to help bring our region’s proud military history to new audiences.

“We will also be installing our first temporary exhibition, which will be the first of many showcasing world class creativity from the North East, the UK, and across the globe. 

“Light art will play a prominent role, inspired by County Durham’s deep-rooted connection to light – from the creation of Bede’s lunar calendar 1,300 years ago and Joseph Swan’s pioneering lightbulb, to Durham University’s involvement in the James Webb Space Telescope. 

“We are excited that we will be able to share more details about this landmark exhibition soon.”

The venue is expected to create around 18 jobs, alongside opportunities for placements and volunteering.

To find out about career opportunities at The Light, click here.

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