Darlington

The House of Fraser store in Darlington, formerly Binns, closed permanently on March 8 after its shutdown was suddenly brought forward from April, marking the end of the town's final department store. The closure follows challenges including the Covid aftermath and cost-of-living crisis, with the building now for sale and plans approved to split it into shops and apartments.

Police in Darlington have vowed to crack down on illegal nitrous oxide use and off-road biking, collaborating with the local council to tackle anti-social behaviour. The efforts follow a new council plan and resident concerns over safety.

Cyclists in Darlington report feeling unsafe on roads despite dedicated cycle lanes, according to local media. The council is planning new routes while facing criticism over existing infrastructure.

Darlington Council says its proactive approach has led to a fall in begging incidents, but shoppers and shopkeepers continue to voice worries about the problem in the town centre.

A four-year-old greyhound named Storm was rescued by the RSPCA after police entered a property in Darlington in October. The dog was found severely underweight and living in poor conditions.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service has been named the UK Fire and Rescue Service of the Year and received a Hall of Fame Award at the iESE Public Sector Transformation Awards.

McDonald's has opened a new 130,000 square foot distribution centre at Symmetry Park in Darlington, serving over 200 restaurants across the North East. The facility, operated by Martin Brower UK and Ireland, features advanced logistics and emphasizes community involvement.