Darlington Council developing new cultural strategy

Darlington Borough Council has published a draft Cultural Strategy for 2026 to 2030, setting out how culture could improve residents’ lives while supporting tourism, investment and economic growth.

Its proposed vision is for Darlington to be a place where, by 2030, “culture enriches lives, involves people and is central to identity and prosperity”.

The strategy identifies five priorities for the next four years, including celebrating Darlington’s contribution to the birth of the modern passenger railway, developing a more accessible and diverse cultural offer, and encouraging children and young people to engage with culture.

Council officials also want culture to thrive across the borough and attract more visitors to the town centre, while developing a thriving theatre offering that involves people of all ages.

A council report said the strategy was “extremely important” and that a strong cultural offer could provide both “economic and social benefits” to Darlington.

“Culture should be viewed not only as the commissioning of arts and events but also as a way of building on the area’s heritage, creating a shared identity, supporting tourism and creative industries, improving quality of life and encouraging community engagement,” it added. 

Building on railway heritage

Darlington has several historic buildings and cultural attractions which the council says provide a strong foundation for the strategy.

The Grade II-listed Darlington Library reopened in September 2023 following a multi-million-pound restoration. Forum Music Studios has also secured capital investment from Arts Council England to upgrade its facilities and improve accessibility and sustainability.

Hopetown Darlington opened in July 2024, featuring new attractions and restored heritage railway buildings celebrating the town’s role in railway history.

The strategy follows the S&DR200 year-long international festival, which marked the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.

The new strategy aims to build on that increased profile through further programmes at Hopetown and other railway heritage attractions.

Focus on children and young people

Encouraging children and young people to participate in culture is another central part of the proposed strategy.

Going forward, the council will work to decide where resources should be focused to benefit residents, visitors and potential investors, while supporting the development of Darlington’s cultural sector.

The strategy is intended to support the council’s wider ambition for Darlington to be one of the best places to live, learn, work and invest in the UK. It said culture could contribute to a “strong and sustainable economy” while helping create healthy communities and opportunities for all.