Pavement café culture is set to be a permanent fixture in Darlington town centre.
Darlington Borough Council has approved a revised planning proposal to redevelop the western gateway into the town centre; improving outdoor hospitality facilities to support the developing pavement café culture on Coniscliffe Road.
The approved plans include the widening of existing pavements, a new pocket park with seating and the installation of trees and planters. Works will also include the installation of new bollards and signage, realignment of the carriageway and the introduction of a cycle park.
The project, which forms part of wider plans to regenerate the town centre, will clean and green the area, creating a safe and attractive environment where people can dwell and explore the wide range of independent businesses in the immediate area. Work is set to begin in October with a view to this being completed in Spring 2025. Businesses will remain open as usual with access maintained during the works.
Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, said: “The regeneration and improvement of Darlington Town Centre remains a priority for the Council and we are committed to creating an environment in which businesses can thrive while attracting more investment to the town.”