A £100m transformation programme has been proposed for Darlington railway station that promises to improve the frequency and reliability of services as well as connectivity along the East Coast Main Line and to other regional stations.
The redevelopment plans to create a new platform, entrance, and station building – as well as carry out upgrades to the station’s transport links.
Mayor Houchen has provided a £25m investment to ensure the plans to transform Darlington station become a reality.
The redevelopment will create three new platforms on the east side of the existing station to accommodate current and future services, a new station building, and a footbridge linking the new platforms and building with the existing station.
Also planned is an upgrade to the Victoria Road entrance and car park, pick-up and drop-off points on the western side of the station, alongside new road layouts, wider pavements, and improvements to walking and cycling access.
‘More reliable, frequent, and faster’
Commenting on the plans, Mayor Houchen said: “A few weeks ago, we unveiled what Darlington station could look like after this transformational upgrade – but it’s not just about pretty pictures, it’s about delivery.
“Today, we took a major step closer to our vision, with the submission of the planning application for the station which, when complete, will give people from across Teesside, Darlington, and Hartlepool the more reliable, frequent, and faster services that they’ve been crying out for – and that they deserve.
“As we recover our economy following the Coronavirus pandemic, a robust and well-oiled transport network is vital for local people to get to work and training, or to simply reconnect with loved ones after this difficult time.
“This redevelopment will also help our businesses to thrive, improve freight links, and attract new investment, bringing with it good quality, well-paid jobs.
“Our connections to London will be more important than ever, especially with the news that hundreds of government civil service jobs are being relocated to Darlington in the coming months.
“Our plans will make sure our region remains attractive and able to take advantage of even more opportunities in the years to come.”
Heather Scott – leader of Darlington Borough Council and combined authority cabinet lead for Transport – added: “The sweeping curves of Bank Top station have welcomed countless visitors to our town, as well as being a symbol of home to Darlington residents returning from their travels.
“These exciting transformation plans are sympathetic to the station’s heritage, while also ensuring we will have a modern transport hub that’s fit for purpose for generations to come.”
Work is set to finish in time for the 200th anniversary celebrations of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 2025.
Image: Ann in the uk/Shutterstock
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