Month: December 2024

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Darlington: A Sustainable Approach to Tourism Development

According to (WCED, 1987) in Higgins – Desbiolles (2018) defined sustainable development as meeting the needs of the current generation while ensuring that future generations can meet their own needs.in this topic, I will be discussing Tees Valley town called Darlington and focusing on how the town is developing in a sustainable manner.

Situated in the North-East of England, Tees Valley is an excellent destination and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding and North Yorkshire. Darlington is a small-town rich in history, charm and ambition, and is nested in the heart of County Durham. As we visited Darlington on the 23rd of October 2024, a member of the events team generally explained how local authorities, business, and residents have been working together to develop tourism in a sustainable way, ensuring its visitors enjoy everything this historic town has to offer without compromising its future. This blog explores the sustainable tourism initiatives shaping Darlington’s future.

1)Supporting Local Business: One of the key points mentioned by an event member was the importance of supporting local business within the community. Darlington is fostering a thriving community of independent business, cafes, and artisanal shops that showcase locally produced goods and services. The town has become a hub for sustainable food, with an increasing number of restaurant and eateries focusing on local, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients.

2)Promoting Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities: Darlington is home to parks and nature reserves, which are key to its sustainable tourism strategy and one of which is Hope-Town which we explore on the day of our trip. Hopetown Council member explained about the £35millions of dollar invested on the park and how they preserve their park through sustainable development, creating opportunities for visitors to enjoy various activities around the town. Victorian Park offers opportunities for visitors to enjoy walking, cycling, and birdwatching, all while minimising their carbon footprint.

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Exploring Hartlepool Local Council:It’s roles and services in the community

According to (Corpus, 2023) councillors operates in a complicated and fragmented environment, no matter where they are. Their responsibilities, expectation, and legal powers centre around their role in the council they serve, the community they represent, and the challenging policy landscape they must investigate (Corpus, 2023).

Hartlepool is one of the towns our group has chosen, and its council is responsible for delivering a wide range of public services and functions within its town, also combine the roles of both a county council and a district council, which means it has broad responsibilities for local governance, public services, and community well-being.

Hartlepool according to (Ferriday,1987) a small town in the county of Durham and has served as an important seaport nearly since its inception and boasts a rich history rooted in fishing. 

On 27th November 2024, during our tourism trip to Hartlepool, one of the council members, Lawrence Kerrigan, and the other explained how the town is undergoing various recreational development and here a few that I can remember:

  • Planning and Development
  • Destination Management Plan 2023 (short term)

Vision for this plan according to Hartlepool Borough Council, Hartlepool is undergoing a major investment program to transform it into a vibrant destination, showcasing its beaches, heritage, and attractions for both residents and tourists alike.

  • Destination Management Plan 2013-2027(long term)

 Its vision is the £52M regeneration program aims to transform Hartlepool Waterfront into a top Tees Valley attractions, guided by a plan to create unique experience for locals and visitors.

  • Leisure, Culture, and Community Services
  • Active Experiences: Improve, expand and promote active travel networks.
  • Event and Animation: Develop an event strategy and a toolkit for event organisers.
  • Heritage and Cultural Experiences: Create heritage trails.
  • Brilliant Base: support Business to become more inclusive and accessible.
  • Annual Exhibition at the Hartlepool Art Club: Continue development and growth of Hartlepool Art Gallery.