Major improvement works will see development begin on walking routes at Darlington Station.

Network Rail have confirmed hoardings will be erected along Platform 1 next week.

This comes as part of works which will see new cycle lanes, bike shelters, a footbridge, and a new multi-storey car park added to the station.

The latest work will see the current seating moved to other areas of the platform, while the thoroughfare between platforms 1 and 4 will be closed from March 6 as work continues.

Steve Harker, leader of Darlington Council, said: “It is great to see work progressing on the station development.

“This work will further enhance Darlington’s position as a centre for economic growth and development by providing a modern facility for train passengers.

“It is especially fitting that as we prepare to celebrate the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, we are improving our station to make it fit for the railways of the future.”

Access to Platform 1 will be clearly signposted around the south end of the station buildings by Platforms 2 and 3.

A new temporary ticket retail facility will be provided for passengers to purchase tickets at the end of March, and will be located opposite the existing travel centre.

Luke Durston, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail’s East Coast route, said: “The multi-million-pound upgrade of Darlington station will bring a whole host of benefits to passengers, all vastly improving their experience as they travel by train.

“These walking route changes are vital for the next stage of the project to progress and we want to thank passengers for their patience and understanding while we carry out this work.

“In the meantime, we would encourage all passengers to give themselves extra time when travelling from Darlington. Changes will be clearly signposted, and staff will also be on hand to point passengers in the right direction.”

These measures will remain in place until work is complete in autumn 2025.

Network Rail is working with the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), Darlington Borough Council (DBC) and LNER to provide two new platforms on the Eastern side of the station and a new, fully accessible, and enclosed footbridge linking them to the current station building.

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The new car park will include secure parking for over 600 cars – equipped with accessible parking and electric car charging points.

Steve Wilson, head of stations at LNER, said: “It’s great to see the improvement works at Darlington Station gaining momentum and we’re delighted to be working in partnership with colleagues at Network Rail, Tees Valley Combined Authority and Darlington Borough Council to deliver this key scheme.

“This project will tie the station more closely to the town and upgrade the station’s services and accessibility for everyone who uses it.”