£22.3m funding secured for Darlington regeneration plans

Plans to transform key gateways and boost the town centre economy in Darlington have been given the green light with £22.3m of regeneration funding awarded by the government.Darlington was one of 100 councils invited to submit a bid to the Town Fund, a national pot of £3.6bn, that aims to support renewal projects that help long term growth in key areas.Working with a dedicated town deal board, made up of the leader of the council, senior figures from business, education and the voluntary sector, Darlington Borough Council submitted its Town Investment Plan (TIP) to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.The funding will be put towards a number of projects, including the urban regeneration of the Northgate House area to create mixed housing and commercial space, the acquisition of key properties on Northgate and the creation of a linear park along the River Skerne.Additionally, the plan involves investment in the Rail Heritage Quarter, including supporting the creation of a 26 mile walking and cycling route, investment in Skinnergate and The Yards, including shop front enhancements, residential development in Skinnergate and mixed-use facilities, as well as the establishment of a new adult learning space.