A New Era for Land-Based and Green Skills in the North East
East Durham College's Houghall Campus in Durham City is entering an exciting new chapter. A major redevelopment is now underway to create state-of-the-art facilities for land-based, environmental, and sustainability education.
Enabling works began in October 2025, and work on the new building will begin January 2026, with completion planned for April 2027.
The new development, delivered by Tilbury Douglas on behalf of the Department for Education, will transform Houghall into a modern, sustainable learning environment that reflects the needs of today's industries and tomorrow's workforce.
About the Development
The new building has been designed by Jefferson Sheard Architects and combines the best of the site's heritage with cutting-edge design and sustainability.
The project includes:
- A new two-storey teaching block with modern classrooms and digital learning labs
- Specialist agricultural and land-based facilities, including a hay barn, sheep shed, grain store, and bio-secure boot wash
- Refurbishment and improvement of existing buildings to enhance sustainability and accessibility
- New landscaping, improved site access, and dedicated spaces for hands-on, outdoor learning
When complete, the redeveloped Houghall Campus will provide an inspirational setting for students, staff, employers, and the local community.
Supporting Skills, Sustainability, and Opportunity
Houghall Campus has a proud history of supporting land-based education and rural communities across County Durham and the wider North East.
This redevelopment will take that legacy forward, ensuring learners gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in modern green and rural industries.
The new facilities will:
- Provide next-generation training in agriculture, animal care, horticulture, arboriculture, and environmental management
- Embed green and digital technologies across all courses, preparing students for future careers in sustainability and agri-tech
- Strengthen partnerships with local employers, environmental organisations, and rural enterprises
- Create opportunities for community engagement, lifelong learning, and innovation
Investing in the Region's Future
This project represents a significant investment in County Durham's educational and economic future.
By revitalising Houghall Campus, East Durham College is ensuring that:
- Young people and adults across the region can access high-quality vocational training close to home
- Raising aspiration and preparing learners to progress to higher education
- The North East's workforce is equipped with the skills needed to drive net zero and rural economic growth
- The college continues to serve as a regional hub for excellence in land-based and environmental education
Principal's Message
"This exciting new phase at Houghall will transform how we deliver education and training for our region's land-based industries. It will provide cutting-edge facilities for our students and staff, and help address the growing demand for skills in agriculture, animal care, horticulture, and environmental management." - Scott Bullock, Principal, East Durham College
Be Part of the Future at Houghall
Whether you're interested in animal care, agriculture, horticulture, or environmental studies, there's never been a better time to join East Durham College's Houghall Campus.
Find out more about courses at our Houghall
Find our more about our Houghall campus
If you have any questions about the development you can ask here
