Conservation Area: Dallington conservation area (DNN12279)

Dallington is located approximately 1.5 miles north west of Northampton’s centre in the pleasant valley of Dallington Brook, a tributary of the River Nene. The old village, which makes up a large part of the conservation area, comprises two main groups of buildings, one on the upper section of Raynsford Rd and the other around Dallington Green and the church. The recently built Dallington Bypass has reduced previously unacceptable traffic levels and has restored much desired tranquillity. The greens at the junction of Brook Lane and Raynsford Rd form a central feature in the old village. A large oak provides the focal point. Dallington Green has one of the finest settings of conservation areas anywhere in Northampton. The Old Forge, Almshouses and Village Hall are grouped around the brook with its white post and rail fences, whilst mature trees provide an attractive landscape setting. The handsome church of St Mary dating from the 13th century, or before, stands on a mound above road level. A high stone wall surrounds the churchyard. Opposite the church stands the thatched, 18th century Wheatsheaf Inn. In Brook Lane, the Old Dairy Farm has been converted into houses. The scheme retains the intrinsic character of the old farm with the re-use of the brownstone rubble walling, and red tiling. Adjoining the Dairy Farm stands the 17th century building occupied by the Spencer Club. Standing imposingly on Dallington Park Road is Dallington Hall (former Margaret Spencer Rest Home) now in use as flats. The present house was built in 1720. An interesting feature is the sunken fence or ha-ha separating the garden from Dallington Park. The conservation area has recently been extended to include the parkland adjoining Dallington Ponds – currently in recreational use. Many fine trees line the brook and provide an attractive setting for the sports facilities which exist there. The brook continues through the conservation area providing a particularly delightful feature at Dallington Green (the Old Forge) and continues to skirt the rear of the Wheatsheaf Inn to be seen again at Brook Lane. It is important that this pleasant feature of the village is carefully preserved and enhanced. Many infill developments have taken place in the village during the late 70s and early 80s, most of which have harmonised with the old village. Suitable remaining sites are now very limited and it is becoming increasingly difficult to integrate development into the village scene.

Record last edited

Dec 16 2024 3:32PM