News-Vision for future of DLI Museum and Art Gallery takes shape

The new structure will form an extension to the Durham city venue, almost doubling its original size.

Work to redevelop the building to create a dynamic exhibition space and creative hub started last year, with the completion of the new steel framework marking a milestone in progress onsite.

We own the venue and Cllr Elizabeth Scott, our Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "It's fantastic to see such significant progress on site. The steel framework really shows the scale of the work we are undertaking at the DLI Museum and Art Gallery and is an exciting reminder of our ambition for the venue.

"This is going to be a world-class cultural venue, capable of hosting internationally significant exhibitions, offering a new space for showing DLI and providing welcome indoor and outdoor spaces for residents and visitors to feel inspired.

"I'm enjoying seeing our vision starting to take shape and looking forward to the next time we can offer an update on this exciting project."

Modern and energy efficient 

A significant part of the original structural shell of the DLI Museum and Art Gallery is being retained, with work being carried out to upgrade the concrete sections to ensure they are suitable for a modern, energy efficient, public venue.

The new extension will include gallery space with a ceiling height of up to five metres to allow for as much flexibility as possible in the display spaces.

A new access road and substation have already been completed and work is currently underway to install lift shafts to access the multiple levels of the building.