Silver Street regeneration?

By Waseem Mohamed

Silver Street, in Durham’s historical city centre, has been the subject of debate this month, as stakeholders discuss efforts to regenerate the street following the closure of several retail outlets.

The street, which connects Framwellgate Bridge to Market Square and is one of Durham’s key shopping locations, has seen the closure of many of its retail stores during the Covid-19 pandemic, as footfall in the city dropped during lockdown periods.

Speaking to Palatinate, local historian David Simpson voiced disappointment about the direction in which Silver Street is heading. He acknowledged that “there are many great independent retail outlets in the city”, but noted that “Durham could be doing much better and at present Silver Street is a bit of an embarrassment.

“Students and ex-students can be important ambassadors for the city

David simpson

“One of the problems is that the owners of empty properties may not be based locally and may not have a civic interest in the appearance or general welfare of the city.” Simpson explained that as a result, “people are frustrated because they have a pride in their home city and want answers when certain key parts of the city seem to be struggling”.

Despite these issues, Simpson remains hopeful that students could help bring about a revival for Silver Street. “Durham students and ex-students can be important ambassadors of the city. Ask questions and demand a better quality environment, and take an active role in campaigning for improvements in Durham”, he urged students.

Retail consultant Graham Soult was more optimistic about the street’s current status, telling The Northern Echo: “Overall, Silver Street is in a better shape now than it was early in the pandemic.”

Soult said “independents are key to the future of Durham”, helping to ensure that the city remains “a bit less ‘clone town’ and a bit more independent and diverse. Many owners of vacant properties in Silver Street are actively investing in those premises. There is no shortage of interest from businesses wanting to open in Durham.”

“Silver Street is in that early stage of recovery

Graham galpin

Graham Galpin, a member of the High Street Task Force, shared Soult’s optimism. He told The Northern Echo that despite the struggles faced by retailers over the last two years, “the death of the high street has been exaggerated”.

Like Soult, Galpin cites independent businesses as the key to Silver Street’s revival, saying that “independents offer a unique service experience”. He warned of “more tough times to come”, but said “Silver Street is in that early stage of recovery”, thanks to “great leadership in the community”.
Galpin also echoed the calls from Simpson for coffee drinkers and shoppers to play their part by “going out to support Silver Street”.

Geoff Paul, Interim Head of Housing and Development for Durham County Council, also commented on the high street’s fortunes, saying “we have contacted the owners and agents of all these units to find out their intentions for the premises.

“Enhancing the vibrancy of our high streets and bringing empty properties back into use are key aims of our Towns and Villages programme.” To achieve this, Paul explained that the council intends to “raise the county’s profile as a tourist destination. It’s all about promoting County Durham as a great place to live, work, visit and invest.”

Image Credit – Thomas Tomlinson