Historic bridge gets facelift for S&D 200
DARLINGTON’S Grade II-listed 166-year-old bridge over North Road – built to carry the Stockton & Darlington Railway – is being given a £16,000 facelift by Network Rail.
The bridge, which was built in 1856, is to be repaired and repainted in a holly green colour.
The work is ahead of major celebrations being planned for the line’s 200-year anniversary in 2025. The North Road bridge is the third and final bridge to be renovated in a trio of upgrades.
Sarah Reid, route director for Network Rail’s East Coast route, said: “This important restoration work will improve the condition of the historically important structure and provide an enhanced gateway for the whole North Road area. We’ve worked closely with Darlington Borough Council to deliver a series of bridge improvements which celebrate the town’s rich railway heritage, and I’d like to thank people for bearing with us as we complete this final stage.”
Darlington MP Peter Gibson said: “I have been working closely with Network Rail to ensure that the historic importance of these bridges is taken into consideration when restoration works are undertaken. It was great to join Network Rail’s team on the Yarm Road bridge recently, where I was able to see first-hand its condition and the enhancements.”
Darlington Borough Council leader Heather Scott added: “We are delighted to be working with Network Rail on this project to improve the appearance of integral parts of our railway routes. The restoration and repaint works are making a great difference for the benefit of our community and visitors to the town.”
North Road leading to the bridge will be closed overnight from March 28 until April 2.