PLANNING permission is being sought to start work on a walking and cycling route ahead of a celebration to mark the 200th anniversary of a railway.

The Stockton and Darlington Railway Heritage Action Zone Programme have aspirations to create a walking and cycling route along the whole length of the 26 miles which make up the alignment of the original Stockton & Darlington Railway.

Those behind the project hope planning permission can be granted on the first part of the scheme, which runs from Middleton St George to the outskirts of Darlington.

The scheme would improve the surface of the route and improve drainage which has been an issue on this stretch in recent years.

Upgrading this section of route will mean that it is more useable and will increase access for residents of Middleton St George to services within Darlington and also give greater access to the rural area for residents within the town.

Upgrading this section of route will mean that the majority of the S&DR route within the eastern area of Darlington will be completed.

Cllr Heather Scott, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “This project will help realise the ambition of the Stockton and Darlington Railway Heritage Action Zone programme, which has the vision that by the middle of the next decade, the Stockton and Darlington Railway will be recognised as a world class heritage attraction, having built on its reputation as the birthplace of the modern railways to strengthen and promote a strong cultural offer that provides a distinctive experience for visitors and residents.

“This world class attraction will boost the economic growth potential of the area in this pioneering approach of using our historic environment to act as a catalyst to drive forward heritage led regeneration while conserving its historic interest.

“A key part of this programme is establishing a walking and cycling route across the 26 mile route of the S&DR to create jobs, boost skills and support communities’ wellbeing.”