A COUNCILLOR has voiced fears that the possible arrival of a Tesco store in Darlington town centre could force the closure of the indoor market.

Borough council officials are in talks with the supermarket chain about demolishing the town hall and re-developing the Feethams site, which includes the old bus station and Beaumont Street car park.

The negotiations are only at a preliminary stage, but the potential development has concerned Conservative councillor Jim Ruck.

The Park West ward member said he was worried that Tesco's dominance in the retail sector would be damaging for small traders in the town.

"I would have grave concerns for the future of the indoor market traders in the event of a big Tesco being built somewhere in the centre of Darlington," he said.

"The covered market is our prize possession. If it were to close, we could end up with the sorts of shops that just don't add value to the town. I will certainly be raising these matters with my colleagues."

But the council is adamant that Tesco's possible arrival would not have an adverse effect on individual traders.

A spokesman said: "The talks with Tesco are still in the very early stages. The consultants we are working with say they are confident that the indoor market would continue to flourish.

"The town centre has undergone many changes over the years and the covered market has always flourished."