Fresh CGIs show Darlington station’s future

New images have been revealed illustrating key elements of the £150m redevelopment programme, which is due for completion in 2025.

The project will include two new platforms on the eastern side of the station and a new car park. The fresh images show how the station’s east side will look, with a striking walkway route via the roof arches of the old station a standout feature.

Darlington’s station redevelopment includes a multi-storey car park, transport interchange and gateway entrance connected to Central Park.

Willmott Dixon is engaged on the station entrance and car park part of the project in a £30m contract.

Once finished, there will be secure parking for more than 600 cars with disabled bays and electric car charging points available.

The project is seeing Network Rail, LNER, the Department for Transport and Darlington Borough Council all play a role alongside main contractors BAM and Willmott Dixon.

The overhaul is still on track to be complete in time for the 2025 Stockton and Darlington Railway bicentennial celebrations.

The project is due for completion in 2025. Credit: TVCA

Cllr Steve Harker, leader of Darlington Council and the Tees Valley Combined Authority’s cabinet member for transport, said: ““I’m very pleased to see progress is continuing to improve access to Darlington for both business and leisure travellers. This new CGI gives a good indication of how the new part of the station will mould with the old.

“When complete, I am confident that all our efforts will create a transport hub we can all be proud of.”

Luke Durston, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail’s East Coast Route, said: “We’re delighted to be working so closely with Tees Valley Combined Authority and other partners to deliver vast improvements to Darlington station.

“Network Rail will be installing two new platforms at the station which will improve services along the East Coast Main Line, helping to increase reliability along the route. Increased platform capacity and the Combined Authority’s wider improvements to the station will go hand-in-hand to deliver a transformed passenger experience.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Giving Darlington the gateway it deserves is vital to its future and the wider region’s need for better connections.

“It’s great to see how Bank Top will be transformed – we already have spades in the ground and the foundations of the new entrance hall and car park going in.

“Our rail network has been restrained for too long – and this immense project with its cutting-edge interchange will cut journey times and give Darlington a station it can be proud of.

“It will also boost investment and make our region even more attractive to investors.”