Next phase of work on former newspaper offices begins

Hoardings and scaffolding around the former Northern Echo building on Priestgate, signal the start of the next phase of work to breathe new life into the town's historic printing palace.

The project, which will transform the iconic building into an adult skills hub with serviced office accommodation, is a cornerstone in plans to regenerate the town centre and is being funded by the Government and Tees Valley Combined Authority.

Preparatory works to remove asbestos from the building have been completed and work to restore and preserve the building's iconic frontage and install a new roof and windows can now begin.

Leading workspace provider, Adavo, which has extensive experience in developing prestigious, landmark buildings, will design, deliver and operate the project which will offer more than a dozen new classrooms and teaching spaces for use by Learning & Skills Darlington and Darlington College, as well as business accommodation comprising over 600 workspaces.

Sustainability will be at the heart of the transformation, with ambitions for the project to receive international accreditation for its environmental credentials which will include solar panels and battery storage, energy efficient glazing and greywater recycling and filtration systems to reduce waste water.

Footpaths surrounding the building on Priestgate and Crown Street are expected to be closed until the Spring, with alternative routes available on the opposite side of the impacted streets.  Three disabled parking bays on Crown Street will be unavailable during this period.

Peter Dees, Quality Assurance Manager at Adavo, said: "This is a challenging project and we are supported by a strong team of local North East contractors who are helping to deliver specialist aspects of the development on what is a difficult and complex site. We are delighted to have reached this significant milestone and to be in a position to progress plans which will celebrate and preserve the building's rich and interesting history while bringing new opportunities to the town."

Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, said: "This is an important and exciting project which supports our vision for Darlington to be one of the best places in the UK to live, learn, work or invest. The development will not only help to make sure local people have the right skills to be successful in the modern labour market but will offer superior accommodation for businesses looking to launch, grow or relocate in the town, with ready access to training, development and a qualified workforce.

“The environmental aspects of the building will also support our journey towards a greener and more sustainable future and the council's pledge to become carbon neutral by 2040."

Angela Howey, Town Board Chair, said: “Fantastic progress is being made on this flagship regeneration project which will breathe new life into an iconic Darlington landmark and will drive footfall into the heart of the town centre to support local businesses and strengthen our economy."