Light shines on Durham’s cultural future

A new cultural venue in County Durham is set to strengthen the region’s visitor offer and support a growing hub of creativity and innovation.

The Light, operated by Durham County Council, will bring together art, science and community activity as part of a major redevelopment of the former Durham Light Infantry Museum and Art Gallery. 

Stripped back and almost entirely rebuilt, the building will offer a flexible cultural space while still honouring its past through a dedicated DLI Gallery featuring objects, documents and archive film from the historic regiment.

Set to house the county’s only contemporary art gallery, the venue will also showcase light-based installations celebrating Durham’s long-running links to scientific discovery, from Bede’s lunar calendar to Durham University’s role in the James Webb Space Telescope.

Alongside exhibition areas, The Light will offer facilities for private events, conferences and creative collaboration, plus a ground-floor café and landscaped grounds designed as a calm public space within the city.

Located at the heart of Aykley Heads, officials say it will act as a key anchor within Durham’s emerging Innovation District, following the council’s recent collaboration agreement with Muse and Durham University.

Councillor Karen Allison, cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street at Durham County Council, said: “The transformation of the site in the past few months has been amazing. 

“It’s been fantastic to see the venue taking shape and, now that we’re able to announce its name, it really feels like we are getting closer to opening day.

“I’m sure The Light is going to provide a fantastic place for local residents, people in our wider communities and visitors from near and far to enjoy – all bringing a financial boost the city and county.

“County Durham has a long history of culture-based regeneration, and we are committed to building on its reputation as a culture county.”

Councillor Allison added: “The innovation district will revitalise the Aykley Heads area, creating a new employment district and thousands of new jobs. 

“To have a cultural venue such as The Light at its centre can only enhance its appeal.

“The café will be a great place for an informal meeting, while the opportunity to host a corporate event in the surroundings of a contemporary art gallery really is something pretty special.”

Due to open next year, The Light will operate alongside sister venue The Story, helping to strengthen a countywide visitor offer that celebrates heritage while supporting cultural ambition.

Colonel Ted Shields MBE, chair of the DLI trustees, added: “The trustees have been following closely the council’s plans to regenerate the former DLI Museum and Art Gallery site at Aykley Heads.

“The redesign of the building, including the dedicated DLI Gallery, is truly impressive and will surely put The Light – and The Story – at the very forefront of the culture and heritage sector.

“The branding is stunning – communicating vision and innovation as well as tradition.

“‘Durham’ or civilian, young or old, local resident or visitor from afar - all will be inspired.

“Our congratulations and thanks to the council and all involved.”

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