Ambitious plans for a massive expansion of a flagship County Durham business park, which could inject billions into the North East economy and create thousands of new jobs, have been formally submitted to planners.
Multi-Million Pound Expansion Plans Unveiled
Developers Citrus Durham have lodged a significant outline planning application for the second phase of the Integra 61 scheme. This new phase represents a colossal £340 million investment and proposes adding a further three million square feet of commercial space to the site near the A1.
The application seeks permission for a flexible mix of storage, distribution, and manufacturing units. The design and sizing of these units are intended to directly reflect market demand from both existing regional businesses and new investors looking for premises in the area.
Building on a Successful First Phase
The proposed extension builds on the substantial success of the development's first phase. That initial stage is already home to a gigantic two million square foot Amazon fulfilment centre, alongside 640,000 square feet of speculative logistics space.
Supporting amenities are also in place, including outlets for Costa, Greggs, and EG On The Move. Furthermore, construction is underway on a 73-bed care home, and housebuilders Persimmon and Bellway have completed 260 new homes nearby.
A crucial element for the new phase is the delivery of the Bowburn relief road, which will be progressed in partnership with Durham County Council.
Major Economic Boost for the North East
The overall Integra 61 development is projected to be worth more than £400 million upon completion. The economic impact, however, is forecast to be far greater.
It is estimated the scheme has the potential to create more than 3,000 new jobs and contribute over £2 billion to the North East economy over the coming decade.
James Taylor, Regional Director at Citrus, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are delighted to have now submitted this significant planning application for the second phase of Integra 61, building on the success of phase one and firmly establishing Integra as a premier business location in the region."
He added: "Securing planning consent is an important early stage in the journey to bringing this phase to fruition and we look forward to working with all stakeholders during this process."
The development is led by Citrus Durham, part of the London-based Citrus Group, which has a portfolio of projects across Essex, London, and Yorkshire. The group was also involved in the 2022 purchase of Durham's Prince Bishop's Shopping Centre.
