Pictures show progress at Darlington Faverdale retail site

Latest pictures show the progress made at the retail site on Faverdale Industrial Estate, Darlington <i>(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)</i>
Latest pictures show the progress made at the retail site on Faverdale Industrial Estate, Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
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Latest pictures show construction on a new retail site in Darlington, set to welcome restaurants such as McDonald's and Taco Bell, is progressing well.

In March of this year, construction finally started at the site on Faverdale Industrial Estate when heavy machinery and construction crews moved onto the site.

And construction is now well underway.

The latest pictures show one building has been completed, with another structure starting to be built.

(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

Diggers and rollers could also be seen moving about the site, as workers were seen putting in kerbs for the drive-thru units.

A letter detailing McDonald's application to serve "late night refreshment" was also attached to the barriers outside the site.

(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

Once completed, the development will have three drive-thru units, eight shops and an industrial unit.

While all the tenants are not yet known, they are expected to include a tanning salon, a vet clinic, and a bulky goods store.

(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

As previously reported, the development was originally proposed in 2023 but faced setbacks after concerns were raised about its potential impact on local businesses and the town centre.

In July 2023, Darlington Borough Council’s planning committee initially deferred its decision due to fears that the new development could lead to business closures and job losses elsewhere.

(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

The plans were then green-lit in August 2023.

Jobs were advertised for the McDonald's store last month, which has revealed a potential opening date of December 3. However, this has yet to be officially declared by the chain.

Once built, the shops at the retail site will join the likes of Lidl, Starbucks, and Home Bargains.

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