‘Huge milestone’ reached in regeneration scheme

A city centre regeneration scheme is set to bring new student accommodation, retail and leisure space to Durham following planning approval.

Durham County Council has approved updated plans for the redevelopment of Prince Bishops Place, paving the way for a mixed-use scheme featuring 504 student bedrooms alongside hospitality, retail and communal spaces.

The project is being led by Landmark Properties, the largest developer of student accommodation in the United States, in partnership with Citrus Group and Galliard Homes.

Planning permission was originally granted in 2024, but revised proposals submitted earlier this year received approval after design enhancements and an increase in the number of student beds. 

The changes were made following Landmark Properties’ acquisition of the site in April 2026.

The redevelopment aims to create a more sustainable future for the city centre destination, combining purpose-built student accommodation with modern commercial uses while retaining the existing multi-storey car park.

Plans also include improved pedestrian connections through the site and enhanced views of the River Wear.

James Taylor, regional director of real estate investment and development company Citrus Group, said: “Securing consent at planning committee is a huge milestone for this important regeneration project in the centre of Durham with our partners Landmark Properties firmly committed to delivering the development. 

“We can now move forward with confidence and turn this scheme into reality and realise the benefits for the city.”   

David Hirschfield, group managing director of Galliard Homes, added: “We are delighted to have secured the revised planning approval for Prince Bishops Place which is a major milestone and vital step towards delivering a transformative mixed-use destination in the heart of Durham. 

“This approval reflects the strength of the partnership between Landmark Properties, Citrus Group and Galliard Homes, as well as the collaborative and visionary approach taken with Durham City Council and local stakeholders throughout the planning process.

“The scheme will breathe new life into a prominent city centre site, creating high-quality student accommodation alongside a vibrant mix of retail, leisure and public spaces. 

“We believe this development will make a meaningful contribution to Durham’s continued growth, enhancing the city centre experience while supporting local businesses, residents and the university community for many years to come.”

The scheme marks Landmark Properties’ third UK development and second planning approval since entering the market in 2024. 

The company currently manages more than 74,000 student beds worldwide and has outlined ambitions to deliver up to six schemes annually in the UK.

Tristram Taylor, development manager at Landmark Properties, said: “Securing our second UK planning approval at Prince Bishops Place marks a significant step for Landmark in this market. 

“The scheme will reinvigorate a prominent site in the heart of Durham, combining high-quality student accommodation with retail, hospitality and public spaces while retaining the features valued by the local community. 

“As long-term investors who develop and manage our own portfolio, our commitment to the city extends well beyond completion.”

Construction is expected to progress over the coming years, with the completed development anticipated to open in 2030.

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