County Hall, Durham, Municipal building in Aykley Heads, Durham, England
County Hall is a municipal building in Aykley Heads that features continuous bands of glazing with exposed concrete beams, showing the architectural principles of Brutalist design from the 1960s. It serves today as the headquarters where Durham County Council operates administrative services and holds regular council meetings.
The Duke of Edinburgh officially opened the building in October 1963 after construction was completed. This new administrative center marked an important development in the region's government infrastructure.
The building displays a large mosaic mural by Clayton and Gelson showing local scenes, bringing elements of the region's heritage into view through public art. Visitors can see this wall design as part of how the building connects to the community around it.
The main chamber is where council meetings take place, and the grounds are accessible during business hours. It is worth checking ahead if special events are scheduled to make sure areas are open for visitors.
Inside the main chamber sits a memorial that was moved here from the former Shire Hall, honoring council staff who died in both World Wars. This quiet tribute connects the building to earlier chapters of the region's past.
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