The contractor is teaming up with Cityheart, Space Architects, Identity Consult and others after Darlington Borough Council confirmed the line-up for a long-term partnership to transform three key sites at East Street, Commercial Street and Kendrew Street.

The East Street plot sits next to the new Treasury offices within Darlington’s Economic Campus, positioning the scheme to capitalise on government investment in the town.

The consortium will now work with the council to map out detailed development proposals, with plans due to go before Cabinet early next year.

Willmott Dixon already has a strong track record in Darlington, currently delivering the station upgrade with a 600-space multi-storey car park.

Recent completions include the Hopetown visitor attraction, Innovation Central business hub, and refurbishment of the Hippodrome Theatre.

North east director Nick Corrigan said: “This partnership represents exactly the kind of town centre transformation project where our regeneration expertise can make a real difference.

“Having worked closely with Darlington Borough Council on multiple successful projects, we understand the town’s potential and are committed to delivering development that truly benefits the local community.”