TREE planting, viewing platforms and new walkways all form part of the plans to overhaul Darlington’s riverside and the public can view the designs.

The plans for the redevelopment of the River Skerne area by the new Feethams Leisure complex will go on display at the town’s Dolphin Centre on Thursday (May 26).

The overhaul is planned to improve the western bank of the River Skerne directly to the rear of the Town Hall and Bishopsgate House.

The project includes walkways, tree planting, seated areas and a viewing platform.

It will incorporate stone from the archaeological dig which was carried out on the land where Bishopsgate House now stands.

The scheme will require the closure of the current Town Hall car park, with the lost spaces being compensated for in the Feethams multi-storey car park, and it is expected that work will commence later in the summer, subject to consultation.

Funding for the cost of the scheme comes from the Homes and Communities Agency, and proceeds from the Feethams Leisure Development.

This money can only be spent on the riverside scheme as both pots of money are ring-fenced.

Councillor Nick Wallis, cabinet member for leisure, local environment and transport, said: “With all the funding coming from an external Government agency, this is potentially an exciting development for the town centre; the plans show that the scheme will be a lovely green space which will incorporate part of Darlington’s history.”

The public can view the plans between 2pm and 7pm on Thursday and comments must be submitted by June 2.

Feedback can be sent to Capital.ProjectsOffice@darlington.gov.uk or by post to: Head of Capital Projects, Town Hall, Darlington, DL1 5QT.