(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
A £19.5 million regeneration programme aimed at improving some of Darlington's most disadvantaged neighbourhoods has been developed as part of a major scheme.
Darlington is one of the areas taking part in the Government's Pride in Place programme, which will provide £19,539,000 for investment across the borough over the next decade.
A local Neighbourhood Board, made up of residents, businesses, strategic partners and other stakeholders, has been established to oversee the programme.
It has developed a Regeneration Plan which sets out how the funding should be used to improve neighbourhoods and create opportunities for residents.
The plan was submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in November 2025 and endorsed by the Government in March 2026.
Its vision is to create “connected, inclusive, safe and sustainable neighbourhoods” which celebrate local identity, support community wellbeing and can respond to residents' changing needs.
The plan has two main objectives - driving growth andcreating thriving neighbourhoods.
Focus on disadvantaged areas
The areas identified as “doubly disadvantaged” include Branksome, Northgate, Red Hall, Skerne Park and Bank Top.
A consultation with residents received 2,398 responses - described as significantly more than any previous similar engagement exercise in Darlington.
David Gartland, chair of the Darlington Pride in Place Board, said the investment represented a “significant opportunity to transform our town”.
He said the programme would improve local spaces, enhance skills and “inspire pride across the community”.
“The plan reflects the voices, ideas, and ambitions of thousands of residents who took part in our consultation,” he said.
“We worked closely within communities to ensure the priorities and aspirations of those who live and work in Darlington are at the heart of our plan.”
The board said some parts of Darlington faced ongoing problems including anti-social behaviour, limited access to education and skills, and inequalities in health and wellbeing.
Investment would be targeted at areas where it could have the greatest impact, the board added.
£5 million STEM centre
One of the major projects being developed is a new science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) centre.
The aim is to create routes into high-quality jobs, particularly for young people living in the targeted neighbourhoods. The Neighbourhood Board has committed £5 million towards the development.
That commitment has helped secure funding of up to £19m from the Department for Business and Trade's Growth Fund.
The centre is intended to help residents develop skills linked to quality employment while supporting wider economic growth in the borough.
Community centres and youth services
A feasibility study has also been approved to involve residents in plans to redesign Skerne Park Community Centre.
The board has approved a programme to improve accessibility for disabled people by creating a network of step-free routes across Darlington.
A newly formed Youth Partnership has also been commissioned to provide outreach youth work in the target neighbourhoods. The work is intended to help identify young people's needs and inform future services.
The board is now considering a wider programme of projects to deliver its 10-year vision.
Under Government guidance, the programme is intended to be led by local communities.
Mr Gartland said the programme aimed to create neighbourhoods that were “safer, healthier, and better connected”.
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“Darlington is a town with a strong sense of community and a shared ambition to make it even more connected, resilient, and welcoming,” he said.
“Our 10-year vision is clear - a thriving, inclusive, and forward-thinking town.”
The remaining projects and investment priorities will be developed as the board continues its engagement with communities across the borough.