Durham passport office ‘eyesore’ scaffolding to stay through 2026

The building, which is leased from Durham County Council to the Home Office, has been clad in scaffolding since a large scale storm damaged windows in 2024.

Reports have been made since of panes of glass falling from the window of the Freeman’s Place building onto the pavement below.

Mary Kelly Foy, MP for City of Durham said: “For far too long, the passport office in the centre of Durham has been shrouded with scaffolding following some damage to the building and the need for urgent repairs.

Scaffolding at Durham passport office. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

“As well as being an eyesore for residents and visitors to the city, it sends the wrong message about the value of public infrastructure in the county, and how much we value the vital work carried out by the civil servants who work in the passport office.”

Ms Foy said she has written to the Home Office to ask for the repairs to be sped up.

A Home Office spokesperson said: “Durham Passport Office is fully operational and safe for both staff and customers.

“Scaffolding will stay in place through 2026 for remaining external works.”

The building, which houses about 1,100 civil servants, was opened in 2016 aiming to provide “a more comfortable and welcoming environment for customers and staff alike.”

It was damaged in stormy weather in October 2024.

Kevin Lough, Durham County Council’s interim head of corporate buildings, said: “Although we do have a lease with the Home Office for the building, the Home Office is responsible for repairing the damage caused by last year’s significant storm.

“We are actively working with both the Home Office and the freeholder’s surveyor to address the complex works that are needed.

“This includes reviewing building warranties and consulting with the freeholder’s insurers.”