A Darlington town centre road will close fully over the weekend to allow for essential roadworks for redevelopment.

Exciting changes are underway as the redevelopment of Coniscliffe Road will see the road close this Sunday (October 13) allowing for the removal of the existing concrete planters.

The road closure, part of the council’s ambitious plan to transform the area into a vibrant café culture hub, marks a key step in enhancing the town’s appeal.

Plans to establish café culture in Darlington are set to be Plans to establish café culture in Darlington (Image: Stuart Boulton) Coniscliffe Road, which will be closed from 9 am this Sunday, is set to undergo essential preparatory works, with local businesses expressing their enthusiasm for the project.

Many business owners along the street are thrilled that the redevelopment is finally underway and believe it’s perfect timing from the Council as outdoor seating wouldn’t typically be in use during the colder months.

The temporary closure is seen as a necessary step towards creating a more attractive, pedestrian-friendly area that will flourish in the warmer months.

Read more:

Many owners are excited for what lies ahead, particularly looking forward to next summer when the newly widened pavements will allow them to offer expanded outdoor seating. 

Speaking with Jasmine and Phil Robson, owners of HASH and HATCH in the town centre they said, “We’re fully supportive of the plans and honestly, we can’t wait to see what it looks like when it’s done,” said Jasmine. “It’s exciting to see the council taking steps to improve the area and bring more people into Darlington,” added Phil.

They made it clear that they didn’t campaign for the changes, saying, “This was entirely the council's initiative, not ours, but we believe it’s much needed for the town.”

As for the impact on their business, the couple remains positive. “Our footfall hasn’t been affected at all,” they explained. “Plus, it’s happening at the perfect time of year for us, when we wouldn’t have tables and chairs outside anyway. We’re just looking forward to seeing the final result!”

Darrel Clough, manager of Orb, is optimistic about the ongoing works on Coniscliffe Road. “Footfall has been great, and we don’t want the road or the town to fall behind, so these improvements are absolutely necessary,” he said. “It’s been a long time coming, and it’s something we’ve really needed.”

Clough also highlighted how popular their temporary outdoor seating has been. “Over the summer, the outdoor seating was always full – people really loved it. I’m excited to see what the street will look like once the trees and full designs are in place,” he added. “I think it’s going to be really great to see the transformation."

Works taking place on Coniscliffe Road, Darlington.Works taking place on Coniscliffe Road, Darlington. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) Darlington Borough Council has explained that the redevelopment, costing an estimated £940,000, will boost footfall in the town centre by enhancing outdoor dining options.

The area around Coniscliffe Road, know for its mix of bars, restaurants, and offices, has seen temporary outdoor seating flourish since the pandemic, and the new plans aim to make these changed permanent with wider pavements and more pedestrian space.

Get more local stories, reviews and exclusive content from The Northern Echo and join our growing digital family with a subscription. Now only £5 for 5 months! Find out more here.

While the road closure will affect traffic, access to homes and businesses will be maintained.

Pedestrians will be provided with alternative routes during the works.

Further closures for resurfacing work are expected in the coming months but will primarily take place during nights and weekends to reduce the impact on daytime traffic.