New dementia garden opens in Cramlington

19 May 2025

A specially designed outdoor space created specifically to support individuals living with dementia has been opened in Cramlington.

The Dementia Garden, situated off Cumbrian Road on the former Parkside Middle School Playing Field site, was officially unveiled by Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland, in the presence of the designer Natasha McEwen, Mayor Councillor Helen Morris, other invited guests and members of the public.

Funded by the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund, Northumberland County Council and Cramlington Town Council, the garden provides a secure, engaging environment that promotes sensory stimulation, relaxation, and social connection for all residents and visitors.

Mayor, Councillor Helen Morris said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland to Cramlington today to officially open Cramlington Dementia Garden, a three-year project spearheaded by Cramlington Town Council and financially supported by National Government's Community Ownership Fund and Northumberland County Council.”

County Councillor Mark Swinburn of the Village Ward said: “It is wonderful to have so many members of our community attend today to witness the opening of this stunning garden.

"It has been a priority for us to attend the needs of residents who live with dementia and this is a fantastic asset to have in Cramlington.”

The dementia garden is the latest project to be completed as part of the Cramlington Regeneration Programme which is investing £3.5m Northumberland County Council funding to improve the town.

*Pictures courtesy of Emma Solomon Photography