Bishop Auckland has truly bloomed in 2025, thanks to a series of vibrant environmental initiatives led by the Town Council. From the eye-catching community hanging basket project—which saw residents replant every basket along Newgate Street—to the Council-funded floral displays in the Market Place, town centre, and Bob Hardisty Drive, the town has been transformed with colour and care. These efforts have not only brightened public spaces but also supported pollinators and boosted local pride, with blooms lasting into late October thanks to a glorious summer.
The town’s floral success was also recognised in this year’s Northumbria in Bloom Awards, where Bishop Auckland received a Silver Gilt Award. The Auckland Project earned Gold Awards for both the Auckland Palace Grounds and Walled Garden in the Tourist and Visitor Attractions and Country Estates category, while Kynren (Eleven Arches) received a Gold Award for Conservation.
In a show of grassroots support, the Council continues to back Cultivate4Life, offering allotment space to grow, educate, and inspire. This small gesture has had a big impact—nurturing wellbeing, food sustainability, and community connection. Cultivate4Life was also recognised at Northumbria in Bloom, receiving a Level 4 – Thriving award in the ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ category. The Council hopes its own allotment sites will gain further recognition in future years.
Cllr Michael Siddle, Chair of the Allotments and Environment Committee, said:
“Together, we’re planting the seeds for a greener, more vibrant future. The Council is keen to bring together groups and individuals who want to improve our town’s spaces—we all want to live in a beautiful environment. The community planting of the hanging baskets was a great success, and we’re exploring ways to expand this participation. By connecting established groups like Green Matters and In Bloom with active individuals, we can make a real difference. Working collectively under one umbrella will help improve communication, build stronger networks, and overcome the barriers that often hold back good community intentions.”
To build on this momentum, the Town Council are hosting a community evening to explore environmental priorities, planting projects, and ideas for collaboration. All are welcome.
📅 Tuesday 18 November 2025
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Bishop Auckland Town Council Offices, Kingsway, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7JF
To register, please email council@bishopauckland-tc.gov.uk or call 01388 207110.
