Plans for Wagon Woods play area as part of Hopetown Darlington

Wagon Woods will feature walkways, bridges, slides, and a multi-level play structure with lots of train-based features for youngsters.

The aim is to allow children’s imaginations to run wild and inspire them to be curious and courageous while enjoying the benefits of outdoor play.

Wagon Woods has been developed in consultation with local childminders and staff and pupils from Reid Street Primary School and Beaumont Hill Academy in Darlington.

It is part of the £35 million scheme at Hopetown Darlington, a new rail heritage visitor attraction due to open in next summer, ahead of the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 2025.

An artist's impression of how Wagon Woods will look (Image: Contributor)Councillor Libby McCollom, cabinet member for local services at Darlington Borough Council said: “It’s great to see these plans coming to fruition to enable young people from far and wide to explore, exercise and learn.

“Wagon Woods is another exciting addition for visitors to Hopetown Darlington.”

Wagon Woods will be built into the existing trees and natural clearings and will be an addition to the attraction for all the family.

Also included in the design is an accessible incline track with interactive features and a companion slide suitable for wheelchair users.

Wagon Woods is due to open next summer (Image: Contributor)Phil Brown, managing director at Homes by Esh said “As a local housebuilder with live developments within the area, we are thrilled to be named as sponsor and become part of the journey to introduce a new adventure playpark at Hopetown Darlington.

“We’re proud to work with local communities across the region and this investment into Wagon Woods will ensure that children will always have a place to play in Darlington.”

To find out more on the development, visit www.hopetowndarlington.co.uk