The redevelopment of Darlington’s railway heritage quarter will create “one of the most significant attractions in the whole of the north”, as excitement builds over its opening next year. 

Recently named Hopetown Darlington, it will be the focus of the town’s railway history and is on track to open next summer.

It is hoped the multi-million development will attract 300,000 visitors a year and will play a central role in the town’s celebrations in 2025 of the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.

The Hopetown brand has been inspired by the former name for the area, coined by railway pioneers who built foundries and homes beside the 1825 line. 

The Northern Echo: It is hoped the multi-million development will attract 300,000 visitors a year It is hoped the multi-million development will attract 300,000 visitors a year (Image: Darlington Council)

At its heart will be the redeveloped museum, first opened in 1975, which is billed to add a wow factor to the site and provide a dynamic experience for visitors. 

The building's clock tower is currently being restored and will act as “a beacon and totem for the town”.

Mike Crawshaw, head of culture and heritage at Darlington Borough Council, said the construction of the new site is progressing well. 

A time travel simulator will take visitors on a journey of how rail travel changed the world. A new Wagon Works play park and restored 1842-style station will also open. 

“It should be a really special experience for families, rail heritage enthusiasts, schools and other groups,” Mr Crawshaw told councillors. 

Hopetown Darlington also includes the 1861 Engine Shed, most recently a scrapyard, which has been restored and is already the home of a couple of railway preservation groups. 

The Northern Echo: Recently named Hopetown Darlington, it will be the focus of the town’s railway history and is on track to open next summer.Recently named Hopetown Darlington, it will be the focus of the town’s railway history and is on track to open next summer. (Image: Darlington Council)

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Mr Crawshaw added: “We want visitors to be able to see manufacturing happening and we want to continue that legacy.

“This is not just a reboot of a museum, it is one of the most significant heritage attractions in the whole of the north. 

“We really want to bring the world to the town and tell them how we changed rail.”