Work on Darlington’s long-awaited £30m Feethams leisure development is due to begin by the end of September, with developer Terrace Hill announcing that funding is now in place to progress with the construction of the project.

The development is to feature a nine-screen multiplex Vue Cinema, an 80-bedroom Premier Inn and a number of restaurant chains.

Among the restaurants and eateries present will be an offering from pub giant Greene King, which will bring one of its first Hungry Horse branded ventures to Darlington.

Funding for the Niven-designed project was expected to come from outside investors, however Terrace Hill recently merged with fellow developer Urban and Civic to raise £120m on the Stock Exchange.

As a result, Terrace Hill now plans to build and finance the project for its own portfolio.

The area’s local council believes that the impending start of construction proves that developers have faith in Darlington and its ability to serve as a profit-maker for both local businesses and investors.

“It shows that the professional investors have got huge faith in Darlington and will invest millions of pounds in the town,” said Darlington Borough Council leader Bill Dixon.

“The jobs that will be created in the leisure industry are great news and will provide a great counterpoint to the hi-tech jobs in the science sector that we’ve recently attracted to the town. It’s important to achieve that balance.”