Government hub reaches construction milestone

A new civil service hub in Darlington is taking shape after reaching a key milestone in its construction.

Around 800 tonnes of steel are being installed at the Brunswick Street Government Hub, which will become the permanent home of the Darlington Economic Campus (DEC).

The steel will form the frame of the five-storey building, with installation expected to be completed in October.

Construction began in January and is being led by Kier Group, following a £118 million agreement secured by the Government Property Agency (GPA) last December.

The hub is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2028 and will accommodate six Government departments, with civil servants currently based at nearby Feethams House set to relocate.

Departments represented will include HM Treasury and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Simon Hulme, director of capital projects at the GPA, said: “This is another significant milestone for the agency and we are delighted that we continue to progress our programme to build the new permanent home of the Darlington Economic Campus. 

“The installation of steel at Brunswick Street is a hugely important development for the project and we are proud to be working with regional contractors – highlighting our efforts to invest in the local and regional economy. 

“We will now continue to work alongside our strategic partners and suppliers as we deliver this modern and digitally-enabled office building that will support the work of more than 1600 civil servants.”

Sean Fenner, managing director of Kier Construction North & Scotland, added: “Installing the steel frame of the Darlington Economic Campus is an important moment for everyone involved in this project, as the scale of the new building emerges.

“Through close collaboration with the GPA, our partners and local supply chain, we are proud to be delivering this landmark development that will be a key part of the town’s future.

“With the steelwork progressing well, our focus remains on delivering the scheme safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.”

DEC has already brought more than 1000 additional civil servants to Darlington, building on 750 existing Department for Education roles.

The campus forms part of the Government Hubs Programme, which aims to support regional economic growth while creating more efficient and sustainable Civil Service workplaces.

Its development on Brunswick Street also supports the wider regeneration of brownfield land in Darlington town centre.

Lola McEvoy, MP for Darlington, added: “Darlington is the Number 11 of the North and the new Government Hub on Brunswick Street will be a big boost for the town. 

“It’s great to see the steelwork going in. 

“I’ve been working hard to make sure this Government investment benefits the town’s business community, construction supply chain, and workforce, as well as brings new people to Darlington. 

“This Government project has benefited us already by using regional contractors, and once it’s built everyone who works there will have the same terms and conditions, from building services staff to senior civil servants. 

“Quality, reliable jobs for people in our town and several Government departments located in Darlington – what's not to like!”

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