CELEBRATIONS FOR AUCKLAND TOWER Monday, 22 October 2018

There was an upbeat atmosphere as crowds gathered in Bishop Auckland Market Place for the launch of our new welcome centre, Auckland Tower.

The celebrations began with a ribbon cutting ceremony led by Clive Auld, Chairman of Bishop Auckland Town Team and Founder of The Auckland Project, Jonathan Ruffer.
Music from seven-piece band Back Chat Brass then filled the air as more than 1,000 people ventured inside for the very first time.

Many scaled the iconic tower to enjoy the sights from its 15-metre high viewing platform, offering a brand new perspective on Bishop Auckland and the surrounding countryside.

Others took the opportunity to explore the building’s downstairs ticketing hall and open first floor space, with an intricately decorated ceiling inspired by the borders of medieval illuminated manuscripts.

Staffed by a new Visitor Experience Team, Auckland Tower will be the first port of call for visitors to The Auckland Project, where they can learn about special seasonal events and activities and buy tickets to all elements of the destination.

It was supported by The Headley Trust and made possible by the realignment of Bishop Auckland Market Place, which was funded by the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (North East LEP) and delivered by Durham County Council.

The North East LEP, through the Local Growth Fund (LGF), is investing in key capital projects across the North East in support of the Government’s Northern Powerhouse initiative. LEP Board member, David Land, said: “The North East LEP is delighted to be able to support the ambitions of The Auckland Project and Durham County Council to boost the visitor economy of Bishop Auckland. The attractions and appeal of events so far have demonstrated the potential reach to attract audiences far beyond the North East and help bring jobs and new skills to the local economy.”

Auckland Tower is now open daily 10am to 4pm. For more information, please click here