Agenda item

Presentation by Assistant Director Community Services

The Assistant Director Community Services gave a PowerPoint presentation (previously circulated) updating Members on the Darlington Rail Heritage Quarter (DRHQ).

It was reported that the DRHQ was not only a destination tourist attraction but a heritage attraction, urban regeneration scheme, museum, place making and community initiative; the social values of the DRHQ were outlined; and reference was made to the work being undertaken in the town including the RHQ, town centre, Central Park and Darlington Station and Cattle Market.

Details were provided of the timeline for the works to the DRHQ, with work anticipated to start on site in Quarter 1 2022 and a completion date of Quarter 2/3 in 2024.

The presentation provided a number of graphics; Members noted that access to site would be via the Goods Shed; reference was made to the floor plan and a visual of the inside of the goods shed; details were provided of virtual reality experiences and rides; and Members were informed of the intention for a Darlington/Stockton themed play area. Members were advised that the Lime cells would become the base for Friends of Stockton and Darlington Rail, subject to heritage funding bid.

RESOLVED – That the thanks of this Scrutiny Committee be extended to the Assistant Director Community Services for his informative and interesting presentation.