Zipwire part of ambitious plans for extension of Cragside play park

The National Trust has lodged a planning application to extend its play area at Crozier car park within the Grade I listed landscape.

Two large new climbing frames are also proposed, along with a sun shade seating area.

No trees would be removed under the proposal.

A report supporting the application outlines the history of Cragside, the home of Victorian engineer and inventor Lord Armstrong.

‘Entertaining people was at the heart of Cragside’s purpose and Lord and Lady Armstrong delighted in inviting visitors to experience this special place which was regarded as a wonder of the Victorian age,’ it states.

‘Lord and Lady Armstrong did not have any children of their own, however, children of family and friends came regularly to enjoy the adventurous surroundings.

‘Cragside has had a play area for 35 years, from the time when there was a partnership with Northumberland County Council as Cragside Country Park, and it has continued to be a very popular visitor asset to the present time under the management of the National Trust.

‘The proposed play area extension will be merged with the existing play area and immersed into the natural backdrop. It is a fantastic place to visit, and has become a real hub for families, and has good facilities.

‘Inevitably due to its popularity it requires updating and extending to meet the needs of the ever-increasing use.’

‘All these interventions are designed to have very minimal impact on the environment they sit.’