Delayed station redevelopment opens to public
LNERA station has reopened to the public after a £140m redevelopment which added two platforms.
The four-year project at Darlington station on the East Coast Mainline also saw the construction of a new eastern concourse and entrance, and a multi-storey car park for more than 650 cars.
The extension was due to have been completed in 2025, but was pushed back as a result of what were described as "additional design requirements" for the new footbridge.
Train operator LNER managing director David Horne said: "More than 200 years after the railway story began in Darlington, this transformation marks an exciting new chapter for the town and its people."
Horne said Darlington was now "the fastest‑growing station on the LNER network" with more customers choosing to travel from it.
Work began on the Victorian Grade 2 listed station in August 2022 with the demolition of properties adjacent to Neasham Road to the east of the station.
At the time concerns were raised about the design of the new carpark with one councillor saying it was "out of keeping" with the Victorian station.
Network RailThe completed project sees two new platforms linked to the existing station building by an accessible enclosed footbridge.
Engineers cut a hole in the Victorian roof to slide the bridge into place using a crane.
The station extension was officially opened by Rail Minister Lord Hendy who said the investment would "boost growth and jobs across the Tees Valley".
Darlington Borough Council leader Stephen Harker said: "The changes benefit both mainline and local Tees Valley services and mean more mainline services can stop at Darlington per hour than before."
Network RailThe town's Stockton and Darlington Railway had an important historical role hosting the first steam locomotive used to to haul passengers on a public railway.
From Sunday as the additional platforms and station buildings open, travellers are encouraged to allow extra time as trains may now depart from different platforms.
