LISTED building consent for refurbishment works to part of an accommodation building at Darlington Railway Station has been submitted to Darlington Borough Council.
The plans include the removal and replacement of stud walls, doors, ceilings and finishes throughout; removal of timber staircase; fitting of secondary glazing to all existing windows and installation of new tea point to provide meeting space, hot desking and shower/changing room.
Given the listed status of the station, LNER has sought to ensure that the proposals do not have a negative impact on the character of the station and do not detract from its historic significance.
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A planning statement reads: "At Darlington Station, proposals cover first floor accommodation including the old signal room and observation room located adjacent the main stairs.
"In addition to improving the internal finishes, there is a desire to enhance thermal performance of the accommodation to assist with improving the EPC rating.
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"This has been considered within the proposals submitted and particularly how this can be addressed without overly impacting the historic character.
"The building at the station is in a state of disrepair and has been identified by LNER to bring back into occupation with the dual benefit of improving the station’s accommodation spaces and aesthetic.
"The proposed works reorganise the existing layout of the first-floor areas which is to be used as a staff room and hot desk office.
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"The primary works would be to carefully break out existing 1970s partition walling and decorations. The main entrance opens to a staircase lobby leading up to the first and second floor.
"The overall proposals are aimed at introducing improved staff accommodation areas at the station.
"The most significant changes to the internal appearance of the station building occur around the removal of the subdividing partition walling."
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