Darlington train users reminded of disruption as major work continues
£140 million is being spent on upgrading the railway station
Last updated 1st May 2025
People in Darlington are being reminded about disruption to trains for the next three weekends as major work is taking place.
£140 million is being spent on upgrading the railway station, meaning the line has to be closed in both directions for a period of time.
A 50-tonne footbridge was installed by Network Rail last weekend.
The enclosed, step-free pedestrian bridge links the existing grade II-listed station with the new platforms 5 and 6 and eastern concourse building.
Network Rail teams and partners are delivering £98m of Department for Transport-funded rail enhancements as part of the wider £140m scheme. The upgrades include the new platforms, footbridge and eastern concourse building, as well as upgraded track, points and signalling system.
Network Rail say the bridge’s installation is a significant milestone in the project to deliver a modern transport hub, ready to serve passengers for decades to come while also celebrating Darlington’s proud heritage as the birthplace of the railways.
The project’s target completion date is December 2025 which is still on track to finish.
Luke Durston, Network Rail principal programme sponsor, said: “We’re at a crucial and exciting stage in this transformational project, and the successful installation of this footbridge is a significant milestone.
“The site as a whole is really taking shape now, and the bridge provides a prominent visual marker of the progress being made.
“We’re grateful to passengers and other station users for their understanding during the disruption caused while this work is undertaken.
"We are making every effort to minimise disruption throughout the project by carrying out as much work as possible while the line is closed.”
Matthew Murr, operations director, BAM UK and Ireland, said: “A huge amount of work has gone into reaching this prominent milestone, and it truly stands as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment of every single member of the team.
“This success has been made possible through a shared vision and collaboration with our partners from the early development stages, through the planning phases, and into the execution of the work itself. BAM is now looking forward to the next stages of work and continuing a transformation that celebrates Darlington’s railway heritage.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: “It’s great to see Network Rail’s side of this vital project is taking shape. Darlington deserves a station fit for the modern day as a gateway to our brilliant region – and this new bridge going in is a significant moment for the overhaul.
“The extra platforms will open the door to better services across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool and strengthen our efforts to get more freight on our railways to boost our vital industries.
“I’m proud our work was handed over to Network Rail on time and on budget – and I’m pleased the project is on target to be complete before the end of this important year.”
Steve Wilson, head of stations at LNER, said: “As station operator at Darlington, it’s great to see such progress being made around us in transforming this historic station to serve the needs of customers in the 21st century.
“At LNER, we’re proud to be playing a crucial part in celebrating the bicentenary of the railway, having already unveiled our special ‘Darlington’ train that continues to travel up and down the country. The completion of the Darlington station project will be a fitting culmination to a wonderful time of Railway 200 celebrations.”
A spokesperson on behalf of train operators said: “We know that these upgrades will have an impact on customer journeys, but we will have colleagues working hard to make sure that everyone gets to their destination as quickly and smoothly as possible.
“We want to thank customers in advance for their patience and would encourage them to check their journey before they travel and keep up to date with the latest information via their operator’s website and social media channels, and at stations.”
Passengers are urged to check all parts of their journeys with National Rail Enquiries or their train operators before setting off.