[1] The national garden festivals were a high-profile 1980s initiative by the then Conservative government in response to criticism of their alleged neglect of areas hit by the decline of heavy industry.

Environment Minister Michael Heseltine proposed that derelict land should be reclaimed for a Garden Festival as a symbol of the rebirth of such areas.

The festivals were highly successful in attracting millions of visitors from all over the country to industrial areas long ignored by British tourists.

Those closest to a busy urban area, particularly Gateshead, did see some housing development but in all cases this was driven by pre-existing local economic strength, rather than any long-term planning around the festival, or any knock-on benefits.

A mechanical clock known as “In the Nick of Time” by sculptor Andy Plant was erected on the site.