More civic enforcement officers will be employed to patrol Darlington’s streets as part of a crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour. 

Darlington Borough Council has been awarded £520,000 of government funding to support its nightime economy by employing staff to keep the town tidy and continuing the taxi marshal scheme. 

A portion of the funding will also support Number Forty on Skinnergate - a town centre facility supporting vulnerable people on nights out. 

It is hoped the financial boost will increase visitors and reduce town centre disorder. 

A community safety programme manager and analyst will oversee the funding from the Tees Valley Combined Authority. 

A portion of the funding will also support Number Forty on Skinnergate - a town centre facility supporting vulnerable people on nights out. A portion of the funding will also support Number Forty on Skinnergate - a town centre facility supporting vulnerable people on nights out. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Amanda Riley, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “This funding allows us to build on the great work already taking place around the town centre to encourage visitors and ensure everyone is safe and can have a good time.

“We have a vibrant town centre, with fantastic shops and events, and a great nighttime economy which is reflected in our newly renewed purple flag status. Successful projects like Number Forty and the taxi marshals help everyone feel safe and encourage people to visit and enjoy our town centre during the day and in the evening."

Currently open on Friday and Saturday nights, the funding will allow Number Forty to also open on the second Monday of every month to coincide with MonGay celebrations in the town centre. Extra support will also be made available to help anyone sleeping rough.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We want our town centres to be places where people want to spend time relaxing with family and friends – but this will only happen if they feel safe and secure.

“This funding is essential in ensuring Darlington town centre has a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere which encourages people to visit and also supports the fantastic local businesses operating across the town centre.”