BrewDog looking for ‘timetable of completion’ at Milburngate

The popular craft beer chain originally invested £1 million into the Milburngate site but has been left frustrated by repeated setbacks, including construction delays and “bureaucratic hurdles”.

The bar, located prominently in front of the development, has sat empty for nearly three years due to issues including the collapse of construction firm Tolent and unresolved fire safety concerns at the site.

BrewDog at Milburngate in January 2025 (Image: STUART BOULTON) Earlier this week, Durham County Council’s cabinet agreed to proceed with negotiations to acquire the Milburngate development to end years of uncertainty around the site’s future. 

A discussion on the acquisition was held behind closed doors on Wednesday morning due to commercial sensitivity, but the local authority revealed the proposal was backed by cabinet members. 

In response to the Council’s announcement that it will proceed with negotiations to acquire the development and push for completion, a BrewDog spokesperson said: “The Council’s decision to purchase Milburngate is a step in the right direction, which we hope will take the site out of perpetual limbo.

“We look forward to having constructive conversations with the Council and other relevant parties on a new timetable for completion, and to establish a date for when we can finally bring BrewDog to Durham.”

BrewDog at Milburngate in 2023 (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) The Council’s takeover aims to end years of uncertainty surrounding Milburngate, which was originally slated to open in 2022.

The £195 million project, a joint venture between Arlington Real Estate and Richardson, promised 153 built-to-rent apartments, office space, and a premier leisure and hospitality offering.

However, progress stalled amid financial and regulatory issues, leaving businesses like BrewDog in a state of limbo.

BrewDog has been among the most vocal critics of the delays, previously condemning what it described as “never-ending bureaucratic red tape.”

The company’s investment in the city was intended to bring its well-known craft beer and casual dining experience to Durham’s expanding leisure scene.

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Following Wednesday’s meeting, councillor Elizabeth Scott, cabinet member for economy and partnerships, emphasised the strategic importance of Milburngate and its potential to drive economic growth for the city and wider county.

She confirmed that the Council will work closely with tenants to complete the development “as soon as practicable.”

With the Council now looking to take control, businesses and residents alike will be watching closely to see if this long-awaited scheme can finally be delivered, and whether BrewDog will at last be able to pour its first pint in Durham.