Wharton Park is one of the oldest parks in the north-east, located in the heart of Durham City with stunning views towards the World Heritage Site of Durham Castle and Cathedral. Southern Green undertook site survey and masterplan proposals to support a First Round bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund, and was later recommissioned by Durham County Council to develop the successful Second Round bid and to oversee delivery of the works on site.

A contemporary heritage centre and cafe now provides the starting point for a walk along the Grade II Listed battlements, whilst extensive structural works have stabilised the main access routes through the park. Signage and street furniture was replaced, new play areas introduced and a new community garden established, whilst the restored amphitheatre now provides a stunning location for outdoor events. The project was Highly Commended at the 2016 Landscape Institute Awards.