A LEADING designer discount store could be opening its ninth outlet in the region next year.

High street chain TK Maxx was yesterday named as one of the stores to come to Darlington as part of the Crown Street development.

The company, which sells clothing, homeware and gifts at greatly discounted prices, is believed to be leasing space in the 32,000sq ft development by Investream Limited.

TK Maxx has submitted a planning application to Darlington Borough Council to display its shop signs on the front of the store once it has been built.

A council spokesman said yesterday: "TK Maxx is definitely coming to Darlington. They have put an application in for shop front signs as part of the Crown Street development."

A spokeswoman for TK Maxx yesterday said that she was unable to confirm the opening of a store in Darlington until a lease had been signed.