A new vibrant pedestrianised area and car park, Kingsway Square, has opened in the centre of Bishop Auckland at the perfect time, as an additional 65,000 visitors are expected for the much-anticipated Christmas Town event – and in true Christmas spirit the parking is free of charge until 31st December 2024.
Christmas Town, funded by the Stronger Towns Fund, is just one of the many events taking place in Bishop Auckland during this year’s festivities, and beyond, and Kingsway Square is the latest development to support the town’s position as a popular tourist destination, as well as benefitting local residents and businesses. Kingsway Square is the result of a beneficial collaboration between Durham County Council, The Auckland Project and private developers.
Made possible by the Future High Streets Fund, which aims to renew and reshape town centres and high streets to drive growth, improve experience and ensure future sustainability, Kingsway Square offers car parking for 70 cars, electric vehicle charging, cycle storage, ambient lighting and outdoor seating, as well as a safe pedestrianised space for children to play.
Thomas Wales, Managing Director, Baccanalia, co-organiser of Christmas Town, says: “Christmas Town has grown considerably year-on-year since the first event three years ago, and has been expanded for 2024 into an action-packed 10-day event. We’re delighted to see the opening of Kingsway Square, it’s a much-needed addition to the town, making the visitor experience enjoyable and convenient from the point they arrive.”
David Land, Interim CEO, The Auckland Project says: “Kingsway Square has revitalised prime space in the heart of Bishop Auckland into a safe place to park, relax and play for both local people and visitors. We hope those enjoying the attractions and events in Bishop take advantage of the free parking until the end of the year.”
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We’re delighted to see the completion of the Kingsway Square development, which marks a key milestone in our ongoing regeneration of Bishop Auckland. The square will not only support the influx of visitors to the town for the Christmas period, bringing a significant boost to local businesses, but it will serve as another space for people to access Bishop Auckland year-round. It will also help us to unlock further investment as we continue to deliver improvements to the area.”
A secondary phase of the Kingsway Square development will see the completion of the surrounding mixed-use retail and residential developments, including buildings of historical importance, such as the Masonic Hall.
To keep up to date with developments in Bishop Auckland please visit bishopaucklandregeneration.com.
