Work on the relocation of a Durham University college has accelerated as plans for new signage have been lodged with the council.

The application, filed by Chris Hindmarch on behalf of the university, proposes replacing the existing "US Unite Students" sign on Accommodation Block B with one featuring the Hild Bede College crest and Durham University name.

Located at Rushford Court, North Road, the dimensions and illumination of the new sign will match the existing signage at the site which is 3.5x3m.

The sign, standing 7.4 metres above ground level, will be visible from North Road and Sutton Street.

Durham University has requested permission to display the new sign from December 2, 2024, until August 1, 2029.

In a formal declaration, the university acknowledged not holding any community consultation prior to submitting the application, which was validated by the council on Tuesday.

The proposal comes as part of a larger development project at Rushford Court involving the construction of a two-storey amenity building, which will be partially embedded in a grass embankment, and the addition of solar panels to accommodation Blocks B and C.

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The Harding Building, which formerly served as a hospital and now functions as student housing, will also undergo minor modifications, including the reinstatement of its historic entrance.

Spanning 1.3 hectares, the development falls within Durham City's Conservation Area and is close to listed structures such as the Grade II* Railway Viaduct.

The council has been assured that the new structures will not negatively affect the surrounding heritage assets.

The design of the two-story amenity building is intended to minimise visual changes, and the placement of solar panels on existing structures is said to have a low visual impact.

Application forms suggest the proposed development is in line with policies in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the County Durham Plan, and the Durham City Neighbourhood Plan.

The university believes the changes will enhance student facilities while maintaining the historic character of the area.