Diversion agreed as Smithfield Road Darlington to be closed
Smithfield Road in the town, which runs underneath railway tracks, has an underpass to allow cars and pedestrians through.
However, it has been confirmed that the road will be closed from Park Lane to Neasham Road, from Wednesday, December 6 until the end of May 2024, to allow Network Rail to carry out essential maintenance and improvement works to the railway bridge.
Smithfield Road in Darlington (Image: CRAIG STODDART)
Signs confirming the work, which is expected to last until May 31, 2024, have been spotted on Smithfield Road and nearby roads, with drivers and pedestrians who use that route having to find an alternative way into Darlington.
It’s believed that this project from Network Rail is part of the extensive Darlington railway station scheme, which will be running until spring 2025.
The sign confirming the 25-week project (Image: CRAIG STODDART)
Darlington station’s £150million overhaul will include two new platforms on the Eastern side of the station, and a new car park, when complete in 2025.
The road will be closed for no through traffic and pedestrians throughout the project.
As part of the closure, an alternative route for vehicles will be signed via Neasham Road, Parkgate, St Cuthbert’s Way, Victoria Road and Park Lane.
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An alternative route for pedestrians will be signed via Park Lane, Parkside, Railway View and Ullswater Avenue.
Images of how the station will look have been revealed already, with the station redevelopment including a multi-storey car park, transport interchange and gateway entrance connected to Central Park.
Once finished, there will be secure parking for more than 600 cars with disabled bays and electric car charging points available.