Willmott Dixon on Darlington regeneration team

Willmott Dixon has been named as a key delivery partner in a new consortium selected to lead long-term regeneration plans for Darlington town centre.

Darlington Borough Council has identified the consortium—led by developer Cityheart and including Willmott Dixon, Space Architects, and Identity Consult—as its preferred partner to explore comprehensive redevelopment opportunities across three strategic sites: East Street, Commercial Street, and Kendrew Street.

The decision follows a competitive procurement process. The consortium will now work with the council to refine its approach, with detailed proposals expected to be submitted for Cabinet review early next year.

The East Street site, situated adjacent to the Treasury’s new offices within the Darlington Economic Campus, is seen as a particularly high-potential area. The regeneration project is intended to capitalise on wider government investment in the town and create long-term economic and social value.

Willmott Dixon’s appointment builds on its established track record in Darlington. The company is currently delivering upgrades to Darlington Station, including a 600-space multi-storey car park, and has recently completed several key local projects such as the Darlington Hopetown visitor attraction, the refurbished Hippodrome Theatre, and the Innovation Central business centre for SMEs.

Nick Corrigan, North East director at Willmott Dixon, welcomed the announcement. “This partnership represents exactly the kind of town centre transformation project where our regeneration expertise can make a real difference. Having worked closely with Darlington Borough Council on multiple successful projects, we understand the town’s potential and are committed to delivering development that truly benefits the local community,” he said.

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy at Darlington Borough Council, described the move as a significant milestone. “This is a huge step forward for our town in terms of regenerating areas which we know are ripe for development and improvement. Make no mistake, this has the potential to be one of the biggest and most exciting improvement projects our town centre has seen for many years,” he said.

James Litherland of Cityheart added that Willmott Dixon’s local experience and supply chain would be key to maximising regional investment and social value. “We are delighted to be working with Willmott Dixon, who have a fantastic track record of delivery in Darlington town centre,” he said, noting the two firms’ successful collaboration on the £110 million Stockport Interchange, completed in 2024.

The regeneration effort is expected to focus on repurposing underutilised spaces and revitalising Darlington’s urban core, supporting local employment, business growth, and placemaking initiatives.