Plans for new Darlington retail units with apartments above have been approved by the Borough Council.

The development, located at 48–50 Northgate, will see the ground floor of the site, currently a single retail unit, divided into two separate spaces.

Darlington Borough Council approved the plans on November 29, just over 62 weeks after the application was lodged.

As part of the approved plans, submitted by Gold Leaf Property Investments, new and reinstated entrances will be added.

These changes are because the site, positioned on a corner plot at Northgate and Crown Street, is within the town centre conservation area, adjacent to Grade II-listed buildings on Crown Street.

Plans will also see the upper floors, previously used for storage and staff facilities, converted into four apartments.

This will include three one-bedroom, one-person units and one one-bedroom, two-person apartments aiming to maximise natural light and ventilation through reopened windows while maintaining the building’s character.

A key consideration in the planning approval process was the project’s impact on the heritage sensitivity of the area.

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The plans ensure no significant changes to the building's size while rear-facing blocked windows will be reopened to their original dimensions with materials matching adjacent features.

The project also includes several technical and environmental considerations.

Noise mitigation strategies, including the installation of acoustic-grade windows and mechanical ventilation systems, will be implemented to address traffic noise and noise from nearby extractor fans.

Located in the River Tees catchment area, the site will comply with Natural England guidelines on nutrient neutrality.

This will be achieved through the purchase of nitrogen credits, which cover this project and an earlier prior approval for two additional dwellings on-site.

The site is outside flood risk zones, and existing drainage systems will be used, supported by sustainable water management plans.

Plans received no objections from the public, while a letter of support suggested more traditional window designs to better align with the building’s historical aesthetics.

The project will also see modifications to ensure accessibility, with a ramp added to the Crown Street entrance and level access for both retail and residential units.

The council assessed the project’s compliance with the local plan, ensuring it meets guidelines for protecting heritage assets, safeguarding amenities, ensuring sustainable design, and improving access and parking provisions.