An ambition to create a permanent “cafe culture” in Darlington has taken a step forward. 

Plans to redevelop and install permanent pavement seating in Coniscliffe Road were approved by Darlington Borough Council’s planning committee on Wednesday. 

Businesses and customers have embraced temporary seating along the street since it was introduced during the Covid pandemic. 

The redevelopment is estimated to cost around £940,000 and has been designed to boost town centre trade. 

A pocket park with trees, seating, and fencing will also be built while existing pavements will be widened to facilitate the outdoor areas. 

The section of Coniscliffe Road - between Grange Road and West Street/ Larchfield Street - comprises a mix of offices, bars, restaurants, the Darlington County Court building, commercial units, and a residential development.

“Outdoor dining has become characteristic of this part of Coniscliffe Road,” Darlington Borough Council said. “The proposed widening of the pavements has been proposed to enable the continuation of this activity to increase footfall to this section of Coniscliffe Road.

“The planning application to alter this section of Coniscliffe Road is driven by a need to support the local economy, addressing business needs whilst creating a more comprehensive pedestrian and cyclist environment.”

Initial plans to close Coniscliffe Road to all traffic were scaled back after local concerns. Richard Warne, who owned Inspired Chocolate on Grange Road, closed his shop after warning of the disruption the redevelopment will cause between October 2024 and spring 2025. 

Councillor Thomas Robinson told a planning committee meeting: “The original consultation that closed the road was a lot better, in my opinion. It would have been a more landmark and progressive scheme for the town.”

But other members praised the impact the redevelopment will have on the Darlington economy. Councillor Liby McCollom, cabinet member for local services, said: “This is a real improvement. I’m happy to see these come through and the positive engagement with businesses.”

Darlington Borough Council said the work will provide some disruption to business operations and has purposely been planned to take place over the winter months to minimise disruption to anticipated trade on Coniscliffe Road. 

Speaking after the meeting, councillor 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.

"I am delighted that this project is now progressing and am excited to see the impact of the improvements on local businesses who are largely in support of the changes. The project also supports the council's ambition for Darlington to be carbon neutral by 2040."