- Overall design of the scheme uses the opportunity to return the High Row area to a simpler, less cluttered appearance, echoing its character up until the 20th century but in a modern and practicable way. To deal with the change in level from High Row to West Row and Prebend Row a single set of high quality steps runs the full length of the scheme. High quality surface materials have been used, primarily consisting of granite and Yorkshire sandstone in the new pedestrian space.
- The water cascade is situated at the centre of High Row and signifies the location of the market historically and the washing down of the streets at the end of the day. Uniquely constructed from red granite, to signify the blood from the meat market and being in a bar code design the appearance mirrors the planters.
- Life Pulse is another unique design feature designed by Dr Michael Pinsky. Located on Blackwellgate the installation is made up of modified lighting columns that are programmed to flash at the same rate as the visitors’ heart rate, creating ever-changing rhythms and patterns between the columns. To use the columns simply place your hands on the sensors for 20-30 seconds while your heartbeat is registered then watch as the light continues to flash at the rhythm of your heart rate.
- An informal event space, named Joseph Pease Place, has been created at the northern end of High Row, enclosed by a large circular planter the space can be used for a variety of entertainment and performances. For information on performances or if you are interested in performing please contact Marion Bynoe (01325 388151) or Jeff Dawson (01325 388427).
- A series of raised granite planters have been incorporated within the steps. An avenue of trees and bold swathes of flowers planted within them help to ‘green’ and soften the pedestrian space.
- The planters also carry a barcode and are representative of the shopping era of our time. The barcodes on the planters act in the same way a normal barcode would and given a barcode reader large enough would reveal the Name of Piece, Date, Weight, Cost and County of Origin.
- New seating has also been positioned behind the planters on the repaved, pedestrianised, High Row. A contemporary ‘back to back’ design will provide users with a choice of views, out over the lower part of the centre or back onto bustling High Row.
- The newly-pedestrianised space on West Row has become available for use by the open market, which wraps around the indoor market, bringing the market into the heart of the town centre.
- High Row marks the site where a time capsule was buried during the construction works, the capsule contains work done by children from primary schools across the borough showing what life is like in Darlington in 2006 and what they expect it to be in 2106 when the capsule is opened.
Last updated - 15/08/2007