THE proposed demolition of Darlington's town hall was welcomed last night.

Politicians, traders and conservationists agreed that the town was in desperate need of a more attractive, modern council building.

Tesco's plan for a multi-million pound development in Feethams would include a new town hall, alongside a supermarket, housing and car parking.

It would see the town hall, opened in 1970, and the former bus station next door, which is leased by the council to Arriva, demolished.

Alasdair MacConachie, chairman of Darlington Partnership, said: "I think the whole development is madly exciting. The present town hall is no longer appropriate. It is outdated and old-fashioned and new, modern facilities are needed."

Clive Owen, vice-chairman of Darlington Civic Trust, said: "There is scope for a big improvement but it all depends on how the new town hall looks and how Tesco supermarket looks."

Robin Blair, vice-chairman of Darlington Market Traders' Association, said: "To get rid of the town hall would be a good thing. It's a monstrosity. It stands next to a lovely building, St Cuthbert's Church."

Councillor Tony Richmond, leader of Darlington's Conservative group, said the whole site was in need of development. Three years ago, a multiplex cinema and leisure scheme there fell through and a proposed office block never materialized.

"I think it will be an excellent development if it happens," said Coun Richmond. "But if you look at the track record of recent developments in this town, there are plenty of examples where nothing has happened."

Darlington MP Alan Milburn said: "It's early days but it sounds like an exciting proposal for the town."

Liz Esnouf, commercial director for Arriva North East, said it was in talks with the council and Tesco about relocating the former bus station.