Matchday Parking: Respecting Our Neighbours

BM Car Park

As a fan-owned, volunteer-run club, Darlington FC is proud to sit at the absolute heart of our local community. The positive relationship we share with our neighbours around Blackwell Meadows is incredibly valuable to us.

To help us maintain that goodwill, ensure the safety of everyone travelling to the game, and keep local roads clear, we ask all supporters to follow this simple matchday travel guidance when visiting Blackwell Meadows.

Parking Responsibly

While we want everyone to enjoy the matchday experience, we must ensure our arrival doesn't disrupt the people living next door to us.

If you are parking in the streets surrounding Blackwell Meadows (particularly around the Lakeside area and near the Blackwell Grange Hotel), please remember to:

  • Keep driveways clear: Never block residents' driveways or access points.
  • Keep roads accessible: Ensure there is always ample room for emergency service vehicles to pass through safely.
  • Avoid verges: Do not park your vehicle on grass verges or restricted areas.

Please note: Inconsiderate or illegal parking risks enforcement action by local authorities, including parking tickets or vehicle towing. Let's protect the club's reputation by parking with care.

Alternative Parking & Travel Options

To avoid matchday congestion around the stadium, please consider these alternative ways to get to the ground:

  • Town Centre Parking: There are numerous council and private car parks situated in Darlington town centre, which are just a 20-25 minute stroll from Blackwell Meadows.
  • Club Parking & Public Transport: For full details on booking official matchday car parking, booking Blue Badge spaces, or catching local matchday buses, please visit our comprehensive Directions and Travel Page.

Ordering Post-Match Taxis

To ensure the safety of pedestrians and allow the stadium car park to empty smoothly, please do not order taxis to arrive at the ground immediately at full-time.

  • The 30-Minute Rule: Please arrange for any taxi collections to be scheduled at least 30 minutes after the final whistle.
  • Grange Road Drop-offs: Remind your driver that all matchday drop-offs and collections must take place safely on Grange Road. Only vehicles with pre-booked parking permits are permitted down the main access road to Blackwell Meadows.

Road Safety Notice

Your safety is our priority. The roads immediately surrounding Blackwell Meadows can become exceptionally busy before kick-off and after full-time. Please take extra care when walking to and from the stadium, remain alert to moving traffic, and always use safe, recognised crossing points where possible.

Thank you for your cooperation, your respect for our community, and for being such fantastic ambassadors for Darlington FC.