Redhills Reopens: A New Chapter for the Durham Miners’ Association

The Redhills building, the headquarters of the Durham Miners’ Association since 1915, has reopened following a £14 million restoration. This Edwardian baroque structure, often referred to as “Durham’s other cathedral,” is recognized as one of the finest examples of trade union architecture globally. The restoration aims to revive the building's original purpose, which was to serve as a space for collaboration and community engagement among miners. Andrew McIntyre, the interim CEO of Redhills, emphasized the building's historical significance, stating, “You’re kind of standing on the spot where the welfare state was first imagined.”

The Guardian

The restoration was not merely about preserving history; it was driven by community input. Prior to the renovation, consultations revealed that locals did not want Redhills to become a museum or a memorial. Instead, they envisioned it as a vibrant center for community activities, including weddings, funerals, conferences, and concerts. McIntyre noted that the goal is to create a “mothership of cooperative endeavour,” echoing the original mission of the Durham Miners’ Association, which sought to build a working-class commonwealth through infrastructure and social initiatives.

The Guardian

The new Redhills aims to address contemporary challenges faced by the community, particularly in the wake of the coal industry's decline. McIntyre highlighted the need for hope among residents, stating, “People are enormously proud of where they’re from, of their heritage, of their family history, of their mining heritage and culture, but what they lack is hope.” The first project under this new vision focuses on the village of Horden, where initiatives are planned to provide affordable heating solutions and community control over housing.

The Guardian

Despite the optimism surrounding Redhills, McIntyre criticized local government spending practices, claiming that millions are allocated to private companies that profit from public funds without benefiting the community. He pointed out the lack of significant change in Durham since the closure of the coal pits, questioning the effectiveness of political promises made over the years.

The Guardian

• “You’re kind of standing on the spot where the welfare state was first imagined,” — Andrew McIntyre, Interim CEO of Redhills

The Guardian

• “They didn’t want us to build a memorial or a mausoleum to the past.” — Andrew McIntyre, Interim CEO of Redhills

The Guardian

• “How many elections have we had since the pits started closing? Not many of them seem to have changed much.” — Andrew McIntyre, Interim CEO of Redhills

The Guardian

The reopening of Redhills signifies a renewed commitment to community engagement and cooperative initiatives, aiming to revitalize the spirit of the Durham Miners’ Association while addressing modern challenges faced by the region.

The Guardian