Kate’s Accessories relocation to Darlington ‘brings sense of hope’

Kate’s Accessories, run by owner Kate Dobson, 35, moved the business to Darlington from Bishop Auckland in August following “a very difficult year of declining footfall”.

Now, a few months on, she said the decision to relocate has already had a positive impact – both in terms of footfall levels and her outlook for the future.

She said: “It feels good being here in Darlington.

“I get good vibes from the place – the people are really nice, and I feel like I’m settling in now.”

Kate’s Accessories opened in Queen Street Arcade in Darlington, pictured Pamela Davies and Kate Dobson (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The move came at a time when Kate felt opportunities for independent retailers in Bishop Auckland were becoming increasingly limited.

Following the closure of the bus station in September 2023, the steep decline in footfall made Kate feel like she was left with “no choice” but to relocate if she wanted the shop to survive.

She said: “I’m pleased I got out when I did. I’ve heard more shops have closed since I left as well.

“There feels like more hope here. I didn’t really have that feeling back in Bishop Auckland.”

Kate’s Accessories (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

However, the move to Darlington has not been completely smooth sailing. Since relocating, Kate said business has been “up and down”.

She said: “There are still quiet days during the week. Saturdays are a lot better whereas, midweek, it’s sometimes a bit bleak.

“But I think you’ve just got to look at it as a whole, and overall, it’s a lot better. I’m getting more people passing by, and a lot of customers have come in and had a look around.

“You’re always going to have ups and downs in retail, especially with online shopping that we now have to compete with.

“But I am hopeful for the future. Everyone’s saying they like the shop, the products are reasonably priced, and it’s been a nice addition to the town.”

Looking ahead, Kate said she is feeling “hopeful” and plans to continue building momentum towards the summer holidays.

Kate Dobson, Kate’s Accessories (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

She said: “I don’t know what January and February will be like because it’s always tough for business owners after Christmas.

“But hopefully if I can just get through that, we usually see the number of suitcases pick up from March and April as people get ready for the summer holidays.

“But it’s still early days. I’ve only been here for about four months now, so I think next year will be better as the shop becomes more established.

The 35-year-old added: “You always have ups and downs in retail, but overall, I’m happy, and I feel more positive about the future.”

Kate’s Accessories (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

In response to Kate’s Accessories closing in Bishop Auckland, Graham Wood, Durham County Council’s economic development manager previously said: “We understand it remains a difficult time for many high street retailers, and we would like to wish the business the very best for the future.

“We are committed to supporting businesses and revitalising high streets across the county. This includes targeted support, training and grants for retail and hospitality businesses through our Towns and Villages programme.

“Work on a new bus station is nearing completion, and we are continuing to work with our partners to revitalise the town centre, helping it to become an international tourism and heritage destination capable of attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.

“We would encourage any retail businesses in Bishop Auckland or elsewhere in the county that feel they could benefit from the support we offer to contact the economic development team on ced@durham.gov.uk.”