Energy efficient revamp shines new light on Durham Cathedral

New light is being shone on historic Durham Cathedral after the completion of a revamp project.

A team, including officers from Durham County Council, has been working to develop the site’s new external lighting scheme, which is more energy efficient and reduces carbon emissions thanks to the latest LED technology.

Working alongside the cathedral and Thorn Lighting, the high-quality creative scheme has been developed using energy efficient flood lighting installations and state-of-the-art control systems. The programme of works is the first phase of a larger project which will also see the renewal of lighting at Durham Castle in the future.

This new scheme enables operators to control the colour of the lighting. This will allow the cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to respectfully mark ceremonies and key events throughout each year, such as Remembrance Day.

Cllr John Shuttleworth, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for rural communities and highways, said: “We’re delighted with the new lighting system and I’m sure many people will be visiting the iconic cathedral to see it illuminated so brilliantly on an evening, enhancing our night-time visitor experience.

“With Durham Cathedral and Castle being a UNESCO World Heritage site, the project has had to be carefully managed throughout and the results speak for themselves.

“As well as giving new perspectives, it will help the cathedral to better mark moments of national significance such as The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations as well as complementing our bid to be named UK City of Culture 2025.”

Maya Polenz, chief officer of property at Durham Cathedral, added: “This new system allows us to once again showcase the cathedral in all its glory, as an icon of worship, history and heritage on Durham’s landscape.

“We are grateful to Durham County Council for the investment, which will enable a reduction in our carbon footprint whilst enabling the building to be fully illuminated again.”