New Darlington station entrance plan approved

The project will eventually create three new platforms

The first stage of a £105m redevelopment of Darlington station has been approved.

Darlington Council has granted permission to its plan to build a new station entrance and multi-storey car park on the east side.

The project will eventually create three new platforms at the Grade II*-listed Bank Top station.

Plans for work on the west side of the station will be determined later this month, a council spokesman said.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said he was "delighted" and the revamped station would "make it easier than ever" for people to get the train to the region.

He said improvements are also planned at Middlesbrough, Billingham, Hartlepool and Eaglescliffe stations.

Heather Scott, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: "Darlington Station is a key rail hub, not just for the Tees Valley but further afield."

Work is planned to be completed in time for 2025's 200th anniversary celebrations of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.