Revamp for key town centre car park

Improvement works are set to take place in Abbott’s Yard, a short stay car park in the centre of Darlington town centre, to replace drainage and improve the layout of spaces.

The car park, which is accessed via Bondgate and exits on to Skinnergate, will be closed to all traffic and pedestrians for the duration of the work, which is due to begin on Monday, June 8 and is expected to be complete by early August.

The work will include improvements to drainage, a full resurface and new lining.

The project was initially due to take place in May but was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Council staff working on the scheme have shown that the job can be done while allowing for social distancing and safe working practices, but only if it is shut to the public.

Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “Abbott’s Yard is a key car park in the town, offering easy access to shops and services on High Row and the centre of Darlington.

“We haven’t taken the decision lightly to close it to the public for the duration of the works but it is the only way to ensure the site is safe and contractors can work at the required distances.

“One benefit of closing the car park is that the overall programme of works is shorter than it would be if we were to carry out the work in sections, keeping parts of the site open.

“It makes sense to close the car park at this time, while the level of traffic is lower, and it also has the added benefit of removing almost all traffic from the north end of Skinnergate, where pavements are very narrow, to allow us to add in social distancing measures.

“It’s good to know that important improvement works such as this are starting up again, keeping well-used facilities in the best condition possible for visitors to the town centre.”

Residents and business owners operating off Abbott’s Yard have been informed directly about the works and access to their properties will be maintained throughout.

Parking in all council-run car parks and on street parking remains free due to the effects of the pandemic.

The nearest council car parks are at Winston Street and Commercial Street.

A full list of town centre car parks can be found at https://www.darlington.gov.uk/transport-and-streets/car-parking/car-parks-and-charges/