CONSTRUCTION work which is part of a multi-million project to transform Darlington railway station will start as early as next summer.

The £105million plan to transform the station drew a step closer as planning approval was granted for the eastern gateway element in October.

This will see the station receive a brand new entrance, station building, concourse and upgrade to its transport links.

It forms part of the wider scheme, which will create three new platforms on the east side of the existing station to accommodate current and future services, a new footbridge and an upgrade to the western side of the station to make it easier to reach, which has also been approved by planners.

It is hoped work will be completed by the end of 2024.

And it has now been announced when the next phases of work are to begin, starting with a virtual Compulsory Purchase Order inquiry into some neighbouring buildings set to take place in mid-January.

This is expected to be followed by demolition works starting from early February, ahead of actual construction work in late summer. The first work to be carried out would be the station enhancements.

An upgrade to the western side of the station is also planned, alongside new road layouts, wider pavements and improvements to walking and cycling access to make the station easier to reach.

The project recently received a £25million investment from Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen to kick-start it.

Mr Houchen said: “Demolition work will begin as soon as possible in the New Year so we can forge ahead and get rebuilding.

“Of course, like the raft of improvements at stations right across the region, it’s also about helping our local people and freight get about quickly and smoothly, on a reliable and fast service. This major upgrade will also do that, freeing up capacity and making sure local and national services aren’t in competition for line space, helping give residents and businesses the rail network they deserve.”

Darlington MP Peter Gibson added: "The £105m investment In Darlington Bank Top station is key to our regional connectivity, enabling more trains through the Tees Valley and improving traffic on the east coast Mainline. 

"As a symbol of local Pride Bank Top is a magnificent structure and I look forward to its rejuvenation. 

"The promise of a plinth in the restored station to display a further replica of Locomotion No1 will further cement our place as the birthplace of the railways. 

"Levelling up stats with building infrastructure and its great to see shovels going into the ground."

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