Construction work on the second phase of a walking and cycling improvement scheme in Darlington is set to begin, following delays to the project.

According to the BBC, the latest stage of the scheme will extend the existing route along Woodland Road from the Hollyhurst Road junction to Deneside Road, near Tennis Dene, while introducing new priority crossings on side roads.

The project forms part of wider plans to create a continuous walking and cycling route linking West Park and Faverdale with Darlington town centre.

Work is due to begin on Monday at Dene Grove and will be delivered in phases to minimise disruption. Darlington Council said two-way traffic will be maintained where possible, although temporary traffic lights, junction closures and pavement diversions will be required during construction.

The scheme is expected to be completed in 2027.

The BBC reported that the project has faced delays since proposals for the wider route were first unveiled in January 2022. Plans were initially delayed after the council was unsuccessful in securing funding through the government’s Levelling Up Fund in 2023, creating uncertainty over whether the scheme would proceed.

Council officials later confirmed in August 2025 that work on the second phase would begin later that year, although the start date was subsequently delayed.

Libby McCollom, Darlington Council’s cabinet member for local services, said the scheme would make it “safer and easier” for people to use more sustainable modes of transport, benefiting both public health and the environment.

She added: “It will also help to connect our communities by giving one safe, accessible route from West Park to the town centre.”

(Picture: Mapillary)