First phase of historical theme park approved

Kynren – The Storied Lands will sit within the wider Kynren park and hold live action performances

The first phase of the construction of a historical theme park has been approved.

Kynren - The Storied Lands will be a new daytime attraction set within the wider Kynren attraction in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

The plans, which include a 3,600-seated arena for a bird show, were approved by Durham County Council's planning committee on Thursday.

Objectors warned the new development did not support the vitality of Bishop Auckland town centre, but the council's planning officers disputed the concerns.

An oval-shaped arena resembling a bird's nest will be created for The Lost Feather bird show, and will include a small lake, landscaped hillside performance area and performance bridge.

The show will be performed using 300 birds.

Plans for a 3,600-seat arena have been approved by Durham County Council

A report by planning officers said the development "would not impact the vitality and viability of Bishop Auckland town centre" due to its link to the "established operation" of the Kynren site.

It also stated the plans would support Bishop Auckland, increasing footfall in the vicinity.

Set to open in summer 2026, the focus of The Storied Lands will be live action shows with storytelling stunts and music, rather than rides.

Phase one of the park will feature five shows and immersive experiences, with themes including Neolithic Britain, Viking battles, and the gas-lit streets of Victorian England.

The Legend of the Wear performance will use water stunts to retell the Lambton Worm myth.

Separate planning applications are expected to be submitted in due course.

Kynren's existing evening show has already generated a significant profile, generating £65.5m to the north-east of England economy, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.