1954, to be replaced by the current design over the concourse and platforms. A major refurbishment of the station took place during 2017 and 2018, with repairs carried out to the station's roof and stonework, as well as the upgrading of the Wood Street car park. New information screens were also installed as part of the refurbishment. As part of a major upgrade to the station, platform 2 was extended in the first half of 2021, allowing for a new direct service from Middlesbrough to London King's Cross. On 13 December 2021, a London North Eastern Railway Class 800 Azuma departed from the station at 07:08am, the first direct service to the capital since 1988. Facilities The main station layout consists of an entrance hall with ticket office, large concourse/waiting area and two covered platforms that are each subdivided into two sections. Platform 1 is divided into two sub-platforms (1a and 1b), as is platform 2 (2a and 2b). Two freight lines bypass to the north of the station. The station is staffed and has a range of facilities including a cafe/bar, newsagent's shop, cycle storage, toilets and lifts. A number of information screens throughout the station provide information on train arrivals and departures. Car parking is situated to the east of the station and can be accessed via Exchange Square and Wood Street, and by footpath directly to the station. A drop-off point is located at the front of the station, close to the main entrance. Future As part of a £34 million redevelopment plan to improve the overall layout of the station, existing buildings are being revamped including the undercroft and ticket office area, refurbishment of the existing stonework is taking place and the station main entrance is to be relocated. New station offices and staircases are included in the plans with a proposed completion date of July 2023. A new platform 3 is also planned to be built to the north of platform 2 fronting onto Bridge Street West, giving the station increased capacity to accommodate more trains. Services London North Eastern Railway As of the December 2021 timetable change, London North Eastern Railway operate a once per weekday return service to London King's Cross, calling at Thornaby and York. More services are planned following the completion of station works. Rolling stock used: Class 800 Azuma Northern Trains Durham Coast Line As of the May 2021 timetable