Napper Architects selected to bring new life to iconic building
Napper Architects have been appointed by Darlington Borough Council to develop design proposals for the refurbishment of the iconic Northern Echo building within the heart of the town centre. Originally completed in 1917, the building still contains original stained-glass windows as well as relics from its heyday as a ‘printing palace’. With funding now secured from the Towns Fund and Tees Valley Combined Authority, the building will be transformed into a 21st Century learning zone and business hub.
The new Adult Skills Centre will collaborate with Darlington College, as well as reaching out to local businesses, to provide bespoke facilities which will offer people the opportunity to develop new skills and qualifications, whether to start their career path, re-train in a new industry or pick up employment training.
“The Echo building is one of our town’s most iconic buildings – up there with the clock tower and Victorian covered market in terms of being instantly recognisable to Darlington people. The new facility will be superb and will make a huge difference to hundreds of people across Darlington looking to learn new skills.”
Councillor Heather Scott – Leader of Darlington Borough Council