Retail

Durham City has a range of retailers including national multiples such as Boots, Waterstones, Next and M&S, several high street banks, two shopping centres and an historic independent indoor market.

The Market Place, medieval in origin and now mainly Victorian, has recently undergone a major £5M streetscape enhancement (the Heart of the City project) and hosts frequent street markets.

There is a buzz created by many independent retailers, including high fashion, fine jewellery and luxury gifts to everyday operations such as cobblers and fishmongers.

Café culture is a large part of the City’s life with major brands such as Caffe Nero, Pizza Express, Café Rouge and several independent bars and cafes.

Demand for space is strong: Durham City has lower void property rates than the national average. The new housing required by the County Durham Plan is expected to generate at least another £80M retail expenditure.