Industry News

County Durham’s newest culture, heritage and registration venue has been recognised for its contribution to the community with a national award.

The Story was among the winners crowned at the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence.

The Durham County Council venue received the award for Excellence in Planning for Heritage and Culture, which celebrates outstanding projects that have improved or enhanced places with a particular historical or cultural significance, for the benefit of the community and future generations.

Judges described The Story as a big, bold, ambitious project delivering on heritage, culture, architecture and environmental objectives.

The national RTPI Award was won in conjunction with Kier, which was appointed as the main contractor to deliver the design and build of The Story.

Cllr Joe Quinn, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for planning, investment and assets, said: “We are absolutely delighted at the success we have had at the RTPI awards.

“To be named the winner of such a prestigious award, especially against a strong shortlisting which included other excellent North East projects, is a testament to the dedication and creativity that has been put into this venue.

“From conception to completion, we have worked hard to ensure The Story is

a fresh and modern attraction which celebrates and honours County Durham’s heritage.”

Dan Doherty, regional director for Kier Construction North and Scotland, said: “It is fantastic to see The Story recognised at the RTPI Awards. This award reflects the fantastic collaboration between our expert Kier team and Durham County Council. By carefully restoring the Grade II listed manor and complementing it with a contemporary extension, we have created a vibrant cultural and civic hub for the local community.

“Bringing this historic building back into public use is something we are immensely proud of.”

The Story has received waves of recognition in its first year of opening, having been Highly Commended at the regional RTPI awards for Building Project of the Year and Best Project.

It was also commended in the Constructing Excellence North East (CENE) awards for both Regeneration & Conservation and Building Project of the Year and was a finalist in the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) awards in the Refurbishment/Revitilisation category.

In its first year, The Story welcomed over 125,000 visitors and engaged 1,672 children in discovering the county’s past at its popular school sessions, workshops and weekly Small Stories group. This is in addition to the thousands of children who visited with their families.

The Story is also the home of the County Registration Service and, during its first year, 708 couples tied the knot in its ceremony rooms, more than 2,100 notices of marriage or civil partnership were granted and 2,277 births registered.

The registration service is now taking bookings for 2027/28.

The Story is open every day and entry is free. To stay up to date with the latest news and events, visit www.thestorydurham.org.