South Bailey footpaths to close for refurbishment

Cllr John Shuttleworth at South Bailey

We are set to start work on the footpaths at South Bailey from Monday 21 August.

Phased road closures will be in place for 11 weeks until Monday 6 November to allow for the refurbishment scheme, which will include laying of new natural stone footpaths and kerbs.

We have ensured deliveries to businesses in the area can continue during the works, and the scheme will be paused for events such as Durham University's Freshers Week, from 23 September to 1 October, and Lumiere, from 16 to 19 November.

Historic area

Cllr John Shuttleworth, our Cabinet member for highways, rural communities, and community safety, said: "The Baileys is a high footfall area to due to its historical significance and access to university buildings, and is a popular path leading to Prebends Bridge and the riverbanks.

"We are carrying out a programme of refurbishments to ensure the long-term future of this route while maintaining its heritage characteristics, so it remains an attractive and accessible area for the hundreds of thousands of visitors to Durham. We have worked with the university and businesses to ensure minimum disruption during the closure, and we would like to thank people for their patience while these essential works are carried out."

The work will be carried out as part of a broader refurbishment scheme in The Baileys which will continue through 2024.