Network Rail is working in partnership with Darlington Borough Council to brighten up three historic railway bridges in the town, as part of a £60,000 project.
Improvement work will begin later this year on two bridges on Yarm Road and one bridge on North Road. Network Rail workers will restore and repaint them, and carry out minor repair work, whilst protecting their heritage.
The two Yarm Road bridges will be painted their original green colour, and the crests on them restored to their former glory. A decision is due to be made soon on what colour to repaint the Grade II listed bridge on North Road.
Paul Rutter, Route Director for Network Rail, said: “This investment will brighten up Darlington, with the upcoming work on these three bridges improving the appearance of key gateways into the town for the benefit of both the local community and visitors to the area.
“We work hard to maintain bridges across our network. This work will make sure the appearance of key structures in Darlington is better, and that it reflects the historic place the town has on our railways.”
Peter Gibson, MP for Darlington, said: “Due to the impending investment in our railway station it is important that those visiting Darlington are greeted with an aesthetically pleasing route into our town. Network Rail has been extremely responsive in ensuring the work can be done on the bridges to brighten up our town. This also presents the opportunity to highlight the town’s Coat of Arms on the Yarm Road bridges which feature Locomotion No.1.”
Leader of Darlington Borough Council, Cllr Heather Scott, said: “We are pleased to work with Network Rail on this project and with the work planned for Banktop Station and the 2025 celebrations this is a great start to reinforce the importance of trains to Darlington.”
In order to safely carry out the two-week project, temporary traffic lights will need be installed to manage the flow of traffic. Clearly signposted footpath diversions will also be put in place for pedestrians. More information will be shared once dates for the work are finalised.
Photo credit: Network Rail
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