THE economic growth of Darlington has been recognised following the town’s ranking in the country’s top ten fastest-growing economies for a second year running.

Darlington is one of only two boroughs in the UK to appear in the list across consecutive years for sustained gross value added (GVA) per head growing by 5.7 per cent annually.

The figure positions the town third in the country, equal with Hounslow and Richmond-upon-Thames in London.

Darlington Borough Council received the Local Government Chronicle Award for driving growth during a ceremony in the capital recently.

A panel of judges said: “This council clearly evidenced a strong vision for collaborating with businesses and having a culture for driving economic growth.

“There are a range of impressive products that vary from large scale and innovative investments to smaller community projects.”

More than 100 businesses and stakeholders have developed Darlington’s economic strategy.

Council leader Councillor Bill Dixon said: “Having an extensive consultation with stakeholders and keeping them involved as we develop our plans has meant that we have been able to sustain growth in Darlington.

“Partnership working has been key to our success and it’s great for this work to be recognised.”

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, added: “Darlington is an ingenious borough that has seen great growth in the past few years, with a multi-screen cinema, the ground-breaking national biologics manufacturing centre and many more exciting developments.

“I know with a great team we can look forward to plenty more growth in the coming years.”