Agenda item

Presentation by Assistant Director Community Services

The Assistant Director, Community Services gave a presentation on the Darlington Rail Heritage Quarter which outlined the proposals to develop the Darlington rail heritage offer for 2025 and beyond.

Members were provided with details of engagement undertaken; initial reactions to the master plan; and that the key themes to include on site were heritage, skills, innovation, play, events, interpretation, skills and learning.

Members were informed of the proposed site master plan which included development of Head of Steam to include an Immersive Experience; restoration of the Goods Shed for use as entry point to the site café retail and functions; development of the Carriage Works; proposal to build a new three line shed with a viewing gallery; and a bespoke play area; all of which will enable Darlington to deliver a unique and in-demand visitor experience.

Details were provided on the Phased Delivery; the estimated costs and timescales; and the potential funding sources, including £20 million confirmed from the Tees Valley Combined Authority Investment Plan.

The Business Plan Assumptions were outlined including an aspiration of 230,000 visitors annually; the Head of Steam, Immersive Experience and play were expected to be the key attractions; and a meeting had been held with National Railway Museum at York to improve partnership working, to ensure the 2025 celebrations were worldwide.

Discussion ensued in respect of a statue of George or Robert Stephenson and the acquisition of a building in Northgate as part of the heritage offer; it was confirmed that a Heritage Action Zone bid had been submitted to the government; and that if successful, this would enable a number of heritage sites to be linked from the town centre to the Head of Steam.

RESOLVED – That the presentation be noted.