Lingfield Point has enjoyed two recent meetings from dignitaries of the design world.

A group from the Design Council CABE Board visited to tour the site and visit the wool factory buildings which have been recycled into inspirational, award winning workplaces with us being the first stop for office space in Darlington.

They also heard about the first phase of residential development about to begin on site. Last week the Northern Architecture review panel in association with CABE reviewed Taylor Wimpey’s proposed design and were mightily impressed;

The North East Design Review & Enabling Service is the CABE-Affiliated Panel which examines most major developments in the north-east with a view to ensure they achieve the maximum design value and sustainability that is possible, given the project brief.The Panel meets monthly in a number of venues around the region and assess four projects at each meeting. January’s meeting was held at Lingfield Point which proved to be an easy to find location well-served by parking and public transport. The managers of the venue were most helpful in meeting the Panel’s requirements and provided and excellent room and refreshments.

We hope to return when the Panel next meets in this locale. In their proposals for the first phase of residential at the Lingfield Point site, Taylor Wimpey have built upon their track record of pursuing innovative development forms, first seen locally at The Staithes, Gatehead. The proposals include some genuinely fresh approaches to edge-of-urban residential development, commencing with the main approach to the residential development via the existing Italian Gardens with the route terminating in a set-piece square. Other interesting features include a innovative pedestrian dominated “walled garden/route” where residents very much take precedent over the car, and the creation of a landscaped bowl and belvedere in the north-west corner to create form in an otherwise flat site. Overall the development responds well to its setting, is thoughtful and will be a fresh offer on the local housing market.

The Design Review Panel made a number of supportive suggestions which the developer responded positively to and they think the scheme deserves to succeed.

Great stuff indeed! The first new homes at Lingfield Point are planned for later this year so watch this space for details.