Darlington Libraries’ Crown Street branch restoration and refurbishment project has been shortlisted for the Constructing Excellence North East Awards 2023.

The prestigious awards recognise the region’s construction industry to showcase excellence in their respective fields.

Darlington’s historic library has made the shortlist for “Conservation and Regeneration”, alongside the multi-million pound regeneration of Newcastle’s historic Bigg Market and one of the city centre’s most prominent landmarks, the Church of St Thomas the Martyr.

The Northern Echo:

To make the shortlist, judges look for excellent outcomes and high standards in the repair, re-use, and revitalisation of heritage sites and buildings in the region.

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Darlington Borough Council, alongside contractors Hodgson & Sayers, Lytestream Electrical Engineers & Contractors LTD, Twin Services, Crocker Plasterers, Contract Flooring and Mite, combined their expertise and workmanship to realise Darlington’s aspiration of continuing the traditional functions of a library service and art gallery from the historic purpose-built library, gifted to the townspeople in 1885 by Quaker pioneer, Edward Pease.

The ambitious plans aim to not only restore the building and make it fit for purpose, but to also modernise the offer with an entire section dedicated to creativity, robotics, and digital technology.

This will help entice new visitors and ensure the library continues as the mecca of education, learning, and enjoyment, just as its visionary, Edward Pease intended.

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Library manager Suzy Hill said: “The award ceremony takes place on, June 16 and we are thrilled to see the work that’s gone into the project recognised.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside the team who are striving to deliver our vision for residents.

“Looking at the other shortlisted projects we feel very honoured to be in the top three of our category.”

Site manager Richard Dodgson added: “Restoring a building with this heritage requires a level of craftmanship of the highest standard.

“Our team of skilled craftsmen and women are producing an amazing result.”