Aycliffe Secure Care Unit

Heron Bros successfully delivered a world class Secure Children’s Home for Durham County Council, designed to provide safe, high quality accommodation for children and young people aged 4 to 19 with a range of learning difficulties and complex needs. The facility was developed to the highest standards of safety, security, and care, creating an environment that is both protective and nurturing, while supporting educational and therapeutic development.

The new build 38 bed secure unit is organised into five single storey house blocks, each offering a homely yet secure environment tailored to meet individual needs. These residential units are complemented by dedicated administration wings, incorporating a fully equipped control hub, conferencing facilities, reception area, and ancillary service wings to ensure efficient management and safeguarding operations.

Education is at the heart of the facility, with a two storey education block providing modern classrooms, specialist teaching spaces, and adaptable learning environments. The recreation block enhances wellbeing and social engagement, housing a swimming pool, hydrotherapy suite, fitness suite, and indoor sports halls, all supported by high-quality changing facilities. Multi-purpose studios open onto outdoor creative expression areas via folding doors, encouraging a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor activities.

The external sports provision includes a 3G synthetic grass multi-sport pitch, basketball and tennis courts, and outdoor fitness areas, enabling a wide range of physical activities that promote health, teamwork, and personal development. Additional amenities such as a café and a dedicated beauty therapy suite support vocational training and recreational opportunities, equipping residents with valuable life and employability skills. Extensive exterior landscaping creates a calm, attractive setting, while the new car park improves accessibility and operational logistics.