Historic Darlington Blackwell Parkland plans unveiled

Locals will now be able to take a stroll around the parkland of Blackwell Grange which has been developed through Homes by Esh in conjunction with Darlington Borough Council.

Months of planning and work including the restoration of fences, the pond as well as the planting of fauna and the installation of seating areas were revealed to "celebrate" the culmination of the project.

Unveiling of new parkland at Blackwell Grange, Darlington. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) This comes six years after a campaign was launched by parkland heritage campaigner Michael Green and others regarding concerns about new homes on part of the estate named the ‘Blands Corner Triangle’.

Responses from residents included 109 letters of objections and 11 letters of support.

While the regeneration of the parkland was largely welcomed, many residents raised concerns about the future development of the site beyond the initial 44 homes. 

Colin Willetts Deputy MD for Homes by Esh  (right) Steve Harker, leader of DCC  (second left) Michael and Angela Green, Ian Williams Chief Executive of Darlington Borough Council (left). (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Mr Green’s warning was echoed by dozens of residents and councillors, but planning officers assured members that the rest of the parkland would be protected from further housebuilding.

However, despite the "controversy" campaigners have been supportive now the project is complete and boasts mown grass paths, flora and fauna, bird houses and trees dubbed a "new, safe naturalistic space".

At the small conference held at Blackwell Grange, attendees heard from Darlington historian; the Echo's very own Chris Lloyd regarding the long history of Blackwell Grange and the Allan family that spans ten generations.

Unveiling of new parkland at Blackwell Grange, Darlington. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) A short thanks was also given by the leader of Darlington Borough Council Steve Harker to both the team at Homes by Esh as well as campaigners for their "persistence" through the development.

Pictures of the park taken today (October 4) show the rolling paths and extended pond that are all now available to peruse and enjoy.  

Colin Willetts, Deputy Managing Director of Homes by Esh told The Northern Echo: "It's really pleasing to get to this point.

Unveiling of new parkland at Blackwell Grange, Darlington. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

"There are people who perhaps did not want the housing scheme but wanted the parkland. It's good that they are happy with what has been done.

"A compromise has been reached and the housing estate has funded the parking restoration. I think it is not a formal parkland - it's very informal.

"The mown paths are unique, it's not what you'd expect to see in a park and the meadow flowers and beautiful and will only get better in the summer."