DL1 in Darlington faces uncertain future at 10 years

Concerns Grow Over DL1 Leisure Destination’s Future

Ten years after its opening, worries about the future of the leisure destination have intensified.

The complex faced challenges in 2025 with the closure of Estabulo in January, which has since relocated to the town center, and Bella Italia in July.

Previously known as the Feethams Leisure Complex, the site is now operating at less than half capacity, with only five of its 11 units open ahead of the anniversary in June.

Despite the vacant units being available for rent, the owners have not confirmed any future plans.

Local Leaders Demand Action

Jonathan Dulston, the town’s Conservative leader, criticized the situation, calling it “indefensible” due to the empty units and lack of a clear plan.

Cllr Dulston stated that the site requires a “complete rethink” and deserves action rather than excuses. He emphasized that the council is “falling asleep at the wheel.”

He remarked, “With 2026 marking ten years since DL1 opened, it’s indefensible that we’re still looking at empty units and no clear plan.”

He added, “The tenth anniversary should be a turning point, not a reminder of missed opportunities. Darlington deserves action, not the same old excuses!”

Responses from Local Officials

The Northern Echo reached out to the owners of DL1 for comments but did not receive a response before publication.

Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council deputy leader and cabinet member for economy, acknowledged the “number of challenges” but insisted it has “massive potential.”

Cllr McEwan encouraged residents to visit DL1, saying, “If you haven’t been to DL1 recently, now is the time to discover what’s on offer.”

Recent Closures and Future Uncertainty

This year started poorly for DL1 when Estabulo closed unexpectedly for renovations. Weeks later, signs were removed, and the interior was stripped.

In October, Estabulo’s branding appeared at the former Pizza Hut on Horse Market, confirming it would not return to DL1.

Jonathan Dulston commented, “This is another example that DL1 as a complex is just not working.”

Impact of Restaurant Closures

In May, Bella Italia announced its closure after more than nine years at DL1. It was one of the first restaurants to open in 2016 and closed when its lease ended in early July.

This closure was described as a “hammer blow” for the project, raising serious questions about the future of the multi-million-pound site.

It followed the closure of Tomahawk Steakhouse, which also cited low footfall as a reason for its decision.

History of the DL1 Project

All empty units remain available for rent. The DL1 project was first announced in November 2012 and approved the following December. It aimed to regenerate the area south of the market square.

Construction began in 2015, and the development opened to the public on June 25, 2016, anchored by the Vue cinema and Premier Inn hotel.

Other restaurants like Prezzo, Mango Bean, The Chinese Buffet, Tomahawk, and Estabulo have also closed.

Official Statements on the Situation

Dulston expressed concern that people are ignoring the issues at the site and urged the council to take action. He stated that the council needs to “stand up” and stop “falling asleep at the wheel.”

A council spokesperson said, “The relocation of Estabulo is a business decision for its owners. We welcome the fact it will bring an empty town center unit back into use.”

They added, “DL1 continues to operate as normal, with many big-name operators. We hope to see the empty units in DL1 occupied again soon.”

Cllr McEwan concluded, “Every visit to DL1 helps support the mix of services that make it a key part of our town center economy.”