Exciting plans to increase the number of apartments and rooms with patio doors and add some first-floor balconies are being submitted to Darlington Borough Council for Planning Approval and Listed Building Consent in January.

The scheme aims to enhance access for residents living in some of the Middleton Grove apartments and selected rooms in Middleton Gardens Hotel Living to be able to enjoy and benefit from living at the heart of Middleton Hall’s award-winning estate.

Middleton Hall Retirement Village Managing Director Suzanne Graham explained: “We are now planning how to move forward after the pandemic with a safe and reassuring service for residents and their families. The past couple of years have highlighted the significant benefits to both physical and mental well-being of having access to gardens for outside air and exercise.

“This was clearly illustrated by the boost given to independent residents living in first floor apartments in Middleton Woods with balconies by being able to take part in the external exercise classes and entertainment offered during lockdowns.

“We have worked closely with Summerhouse Architects from Guisborough who have created designs showing how balconies could be added without affecting the historical elements of the building. The balcony doors will improve the view from the first floor by providing a full length glazed door and residents will be able to have planters on their balconies to keep their own bit of garden, as well as have room for a small table and chairs.”

A health and safety assessment is underway and plans are due to be submitted in January. If approved, we would hope to start work during 2022. Feedback on the plans is welcomed and can be emailed to info@mhrv.co.uk