A NEW independent report on construction in the UK has shown that Darlington is leading in construction growth in the North-East.

According to the report by researchers Barbour ABI, Darlington had the largest growth in contracts awarded in 2015, increasing by 152 per cent on the previous year.

The report highlights Darlington as a hotspot for residential and infrastructure contracts and its North Retail Park was in the top ten commercial contracts in the region.

In the past year, building projects in the borough have included the Feethams Leisure Complex, new housing in Central Park and West Park, the Darlington North Retail Park and expansion in Faverdale.

Throughout 2015 the projects brought more than 2,000 new jobs and 327 new homes to the borough.

Figures released earlier in the year development company Keepmoat also showed that a large proportion of the workforce on the flagship Central Park development are local to Darlington.

The figures showed that 84 per cent of the employees live within a 30 mile radius of the town.

In the next 20 years the council is planning for up to 10,000 new homes, and 6,000 new jobs for the borough.

The plan also encompasses accessible open spaces, sport and recreation facilities and health and education venues.

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “Darlington is an ambitious and growing borough, we need to keep building to ensure that it remains and attractive place with enough good quality homes and jobs for current and future residents.”