The final sections of a new footbridge at Darlington railway station have been successfully installed, marking a key milestone in the £140 million redevelopment project that is transforming the historic station into a modern transport hub.
Installed by Network Rail contractor BAM, the footbridge now connects the original Victorian station with the new eastern entrance and platforms 5 and 6. All four structural steel sections are now in place, following the installation of the first two in February.
Once complete, the new footbridge will significantly enhance the passenger experience, offering seamless access between platforms and to the new concourse and facilities. The addition of platforms 5 and 6 will also improve train flow and performance, enabling increased capacity and more frequent services in the future.
The redevelopment is a joint effort between Network Rail, LNER, Tees Valley Combined Authority, Darlington Borough Council, and the Department for Transport, which is the majority funder.
Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, said:
“It’s great to see the final piece of the concourse fitting into place. We handed over the gateway building on time and on budget – and it’s pleasing to see Network Rail are making good progress to get this whole vital project over the line and ready for the people of Darlington this year.
“It’s a huge year for our railway heritage – and this project will not only provide the modern station Darlington deserves, but it will also open up huge opportunities for connectivity, trade and freight to and from Teesside and Hartlepool further down the line.”
The wider project includes:
- A new eastern concourse and entrance hall with access from Neasham Road
- A revamped western gateway to improve onward travel connections
- A new transport interchange and multi-storey car park
- Modern passenger facilities and improved public realm
Preparatory work is also underway on the Victoria Road side of the station, where hoardings have been erected around buildings set for demolition to make way for improved town centre connectivity.
The redevelopment remains on track for completion in December 2025—timed to coincide with the conclusion of the Railway 200 celebrations, marking 200 years since the world’s first passenger railway journey.
Image credit: Tees Valley Combined Authority
