Plans have been approved to breathe new life into a historic Darlington building as part of a wider regeneration project for the town.
Number 156 Northgate, which was constructed in the early 19th century and was home to the prominent Quaker Robson family, is to be redeveloped into high quality office space for small businesses, bringing more jobs to the area. Funded by the UK government, the project is a key development in Darlington Borough Council’s plans to transform Northgate and promote social and economic growth in the area.
Bought by Darlington Borough Council in June 2023, the building has had a series of owners and has been redeveloped and amended on several occasions; however has managed to retain many of its original features.
The four storey, grade II* listed building, which is currently vacant, will undergo a series of alterations to repair and preserve the buildings fabric and improve accessibility; making sure it remains fit for use by a modern audience. Planned works include alterations to paving at the side of the property to allow level access, the introduction of an internal ramp and the demolition of a conservatory and external staircase to the rear of the building which were added in the 1990s. Mechanical and electrical services will also be updated and the building will receive new finishes and decoration throughout.
A contractor is soon to be sought for the development and the council aims to have the offices available for use by the end of next year.
