The Darras Hall Estate
The Darras Hall Estate is one of the most desirable areas in the North East to live in is approximately 7 miles from the centre of Newcastle upon Tyne.
It was formed in 1910 by a group of forward thinking inviduals who became the Trustees of the estate, and wrote a formal legally binding document known as The Trust Deed which is supported by a book of bye-laws providing guidance and rules for managing the estate by an elected committee of 15 owners.
The total area is approximately 925 acres which was originally divided into 5 acre plots and then in time was subdivided into various plot sizes depending on approved development with the minimum plot size allowed being 0.25 acres as laid down in the Trust Deed. The Trustees rightly envisaged that the estate would be developed and we now have 2568 properties [which is close to maximum], which are serviced by a small enthusiastic shopping centre in the middle of the estate.
The Trust Deed principles and bye-laws which are followed very strictly by the committee have been challenged unsuccessfully in court a number of times which proves that they are standing the test of time and achieving the objectives of the founders set 95 years ago thus maintaining a countryside environment of trees and openness. However, it is important to mention that the committee have the legal right of total discretion as laid down in the Trust Deed and they can also review the bye-laws to suit the needs of present day living requirements. There has been a recent up dating of the byelaws, which now clearly define the ratio of plot size to building dimensions so that over development of a plot is avoided.
Finally the estate is going through a period of change, as it is clear that the smaller and older houses on the estate do not meet the needs of present day family requirements. We are therefore seeing many alterations to existing properties and also demolish and re-build .The committee are kept very busy by processing well over 200 planning applications a year ensuring that they comply with the regulations thus protecting a very desirable area to live in.
NEWSLETTER
It was felt that it would be a good opportunity to mention in this Newsletter, the issues that have been repeatedly raised not only throughout this year, but in previous years.
It is the view of many that there is a dramatic change in the behaviour of society, resulting in a very noticeable reduction of standards and attitudes towards others and public areas.
The Bridlepath, which is Estate owned land and is a lovely and very unusual feature which runs through the Estate, is fast becoming a target for vandals. It is being used as a dumping ground for building waste, debris and garden rubbish, not to mention the broken glass which runs throughout - this is not what one would expect to see on a Bridlepath. The debris which litters the Bridlepath is a danger to all, especially animals. Waste and dog bins are provided, but even these are victims of the vandals. Replacements cost money, which results in an increase in your rent charge! When carrying out necessary tree work, the Committee purposely leave undergrowth and fallen branches to provide a retreat for wildlife.
The Estate it seems, is unfortunately fast becoming a graffiti board. Perhaps, these vandals would benefit from an attitude lesson given by a responsible individual. I am sure that they or their families would object to their property being vandalised!
You will be interested to learn that the speed indicator sign that was located on Middle Drive for three months has had the desired effect – I will save the details for the Annual General Meeting Report when the results will be more comprehensive, after it has been in Darras Road for three months.
It will be the Darras Hall Estate Centenary in 2010 and despite previously asking for suggestions to mark the occasion, the response has been very limited. It would be a shame to let this event pass without recognition and any suggestions would be welcome. One suggestion is that the Committee purchase a number of wooden seats which would be suitably named and placed in strategic locations throughout the Estate.
M J H Dainty
Chairman