Proposals for multi-million Darlington leisure complex

Plans to create a multi-million pound leisure scheme in the centre of Darlington have been submitted by property developer, Terrace Hill.

Located on the former bus depot site, Feethams Leisure will be anchored by a nine screen multiplex Vue cinema and will include an 80 bed Premier Inn hotel.

National restaurant operators Nando’s and Prezzo are confirmed as joining the scheme and the developer says it is in advanced discussions with a number of other well-known national leisure brands who are looking to establish a presence in Darlington.

Alongside national organisations, Terrace Hill is also welcoming proposals from independent businesses that wish to be located on the prime space. Featuring both national and independent retailers will allow the group to achieve its aim of offering visitors a unique leisure experience.

During the public consultation earlier in the year, hundreds of residents voiced their support for Darlington’s first leisure scheme which will include 600 surface car parking spaces adjacent to the site, alongside an additional 80 spaces situated on the Feethams Leisure site itself.

Subject to approval of the planning application, Feethams Leisure will become one of Darlington’s largest employment sites with over 500 jobs created upon completion with additional jobs during the construction phase.

Duncan McEwan, head of Retail and Leisure Development commented: “We would like to thank everyone who has taken part in the consultation so far and would encourage the public to continue voicing their views throughout Darlington Borough Council’s consultation process for the scheme.

“Since the consultation event, in March we have taken on board a number of comments from the public and statutory bodies. In particular the removal of the “green box” on the eastern elevation, following these representations. In addition the council’s proposals for the Department for Education building have necessitated revisals to the access arrangements on the northern elevation.”

“Should the application be approved, Feethams Leisure will provide Darlington with a first-class leisure offer that will help to attract out-of-town visitors. By establishing a prime leisure destination in the heart of Darlington town centre, we are confident that we can bring positive economic benefits to local people and have a significant effect on Darlington as a whole for many years to come.”

Subject to planning approval, work is anticipated to begin on Feethams Leisure in early 2014 before opening to the public by Summer 2015.