Learning Resource Centre, St. John's College, Durham

‘All in all the proposed building would be a substantial but fitting addition to the street scene and the surrounding area. … it would enhance the Durham City Conservation Area, the Durham Castle and Cathedral World Heritage Site, and preserve the settings of adjacent listed buildings.’ These are the words of the Inspector who upheld an appeal against Durham County Council’s refusal of planning permission for the Learning Resource Centre. 

 

The proposal was for an unashamedly contemporary structure that would respect the massing and form of the adjacent historic buildings. Woodhall had been closely involved with the development of the design over a long period, including discussions with English Heritage (now Historic England), the Council’s Conservation Officer and other interested bodies.