Conversations concerning the fate of the Woodburne Mansion continue in Darby Borough, writes Kevin Tustin for The News of Delaware County.

The 55-room mansion, built in 1906 as a private residence by noted Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer, sits on the Darby side of Springfield Road where the borough meets with Aldan, Collingdale, and Upper Darby.

The mansion and the 30-acre tract of land on which it sits is owned by Delaware County. The structure, which sits back from the road and has become overgrown with vegetation, is difficult to see today.

County Council Chairman John McBlain said the county is looking at potential future uses for the mansion and property, as well as the associated costs.

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The estimated cost to demolish the building is about $1 million while the estimate to return the mansion to its past glory is about $18 million.

In looking at the future of the property, the county has consulted with York-based TPW Design Studios. A concept plan, drawn up in October 2017, shows an open, passive recreation area with the Woodburne included in the plans. Picnic groves, a community garden center, and an outdoor event space also are included in the plan.

A full report by TPW is expected at the end of this year.

Read more about the Woodburne Mansion in The News of Delaware County by clicking here.

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