It will bring more shops, student accommodation and a car park to the local area - with plans to 'breathe new life' into the region.

20:34, Sun, Apr 19, 2026 Updated: 20:40, Sun, Apr 19, 2026

Shops in Durham

The shops are set for a huge redevelopment (Image: Google)

A huge shopping centre is due to get a massive makeover in a “once-in-a-generation” update. The Prince Bishops Shopping Centre in Durham has reportedly seen fewer visitors in recent years. But now, a complete overhaul will see 32 new retail units and student accommodation and a brand-new car park. The project will “breathe new life” into the area. MP Mary Kelly Foy has announced her support of plans, saying she “wholeheartedly” welcomed the bid.

She said: “By creating a destination that offers more than just traditional retail – incorporating leisure, modern living, and open public spaces – this scheme will help secure the long-term future of Durham’s high street.”

Endorsing the proposals, the City of Durham Parish Council described the current scheme as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine one of Durham's most prominent city centre sites", reports Chronicle Live.

Durham shopping

The area currently has a number of empty units, according to reports (Image: GOOGLE STREET VIEW)

The new plans aim to turn the area into a modern, mixed-use destination where people can shop, live and spend time. A new car park will be installed to help people access the area and boost footfall.

Hundreds of new flats for students will help to bring more people into the area and boost businesses.

Developers say the revamp will secure the site’s future and ensure it remains a key part of Durham city centre for years to come, reports The Sun.

Initial planning consent was secured in 2024 but underwent revision earlier this year following the abandonment of plans for a 101-bedroom hotel.

Durham

The shopping centre is located in Durham in the North East of England (Image: GETTY IMAGES)

The revised scheme will now deliver up to 500 rooms within the fresh student accommodation, with Ms Foy characterising the location as the "perfect location" for new flats.

While Durham boasts one of the lowest vacancy rates in the county, the city centre has nevertheless felt the impact of national store closures.

Fresh views across the River Wear will be delivered by opening up the enclosed walkway running through the site, while also establishing a new public square.

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At a planning committee meeting, parish Councillor Rory Handy stated: "By adapting the mix of uses to reflect market realities, it provides a credible route to transform the retail landscape of the city.

"This is a really exciting new chapter for our city and we wish the applicants every success with the development stage."