Station revamp is on right track

PLANS to transform Darlington railway station have taken another step forward as a compulsory purchase order is approved.

The plans to transform the station will see a new platform, entrance, station building and upgrades to its transport links.

A compulsory purchase order was progressed by Darlington Borough Council for land to the east and west of the station, with a public inquiry held virtually in January ahead of the result.

The Planning Inspectorate has now ruled that all the land in question can be brought into public ownership.

This follows the news that, late last year, planning permission was granted for both the new eastern and western entrances of the station.

The major 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.

An upgrade to the Victoria Road entrance and car park, pick up and drop-off points on the western side of the station is planned, alongside new road layouts, wider pavements and improvements to walking and cycling access to make the station easier to reach.

Councillor Heather Scott, Leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “What we have here is a once in a generation chance to redevelop our historic railway station to ensure it remains fit for purpose for many, many years.

“The decision to go ahead with compulsory purchase order proceedings, to enable this work to be carried out, is not one that was taken lightly, and appropriate steps are being taken to bring about a satisfactory conclusion for all concerned.

“I look forward to seeing the station development project continue to make great progress.”

The plans have been backed by £25m of funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This is a welcome result that will help kickstart the sorely needed £105m redevelopment to improve and futureproof Darlington station, providing faster, smoother and more reliable services to help people get around locally and nationally.