Former DLI Museum renamed The Light to open in summer

The former Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Museum at Aykley Heads, Durham, has been renamed The Light as part of a major redevelopment project. 

It previously housed the collection of historic DLI artefacts but closed in 2016 as part of cost-cutting measures after falling into a state of disrepair. 

Durham County Council said the new site will be a multi-purpose cultural space and serve as a hub for creativity and innovation.

Cllr Karen Allison, cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, and Cllr Joe Quinn, cabinet member for planning, investments and assets, at The Light. (Image: Durham County Council)

A new café and retail space will open alongside exhibition areas, galleries, studios and teaching spaces. 

Between 80,000 and 100,000 visitors are expected to visit each year. 

During the extensive renovation work, the building was stripped down to its basic structure and almost completely rebuilt. 

Ben Kelsey, the council’s senior manager for projects and performance, told an economy and enterprise scrutiny committee that the project has faced challenges but is on track to open later this year.

He said: “Supply chain pressures and challenges in the construction sector have affected the construction in key stages of its delivery. 

“The existing building, when it was stripped back, had a number of challenges and issues which added pressures in terms of cost and time. 

“The Light is due to open this Summer; it’s down for practical completion in March.”

The new venue will be a sister site to The Story at Mount Oswald, which provides the permanent home to the DLI collection. 

The local authority said: “We want to shake up the traditional view of a museum and gallery, by listening and collaborating, utilising technology and developing innovative partnerships across cities and sectors, ensuring we are on people’s ‘must visit’ bucket list. 

“Artists and scientists will be encouraged to create, experiment and collaborate. Communities will gather for events, learning and participation.”