RESIDENTS concerned about the recent loss of old buildings in Darlington have called a public meeting with a view to forming a pressure group for the town.

The move follows the demise of buildings such as Chesterfield House and Grantley, which were demolished to make way for housing developments.

The meeting has been arranged for Wednesday, January 22, at 7.30 in the Dolphin Centre, Darlington.

Representatives from English Heritage and the North-East Civic Trust will explain their roles in protecting townscapes and historic surroundings.

An open discussion will follow to consider the merit of resurrecting a local branch of the Civic Trust or whether an alternative organisation would be more appropriate.

Chartered landscape architect Jenny Leeming, who has arranged the meeting, said: "Our local environment is under great pressure from roads, commercial building and in particular residential development. Inevitably this creates conflict, but too often the balance is in favour of profit and short-term gain.

"Our townscape of buildings, open spaces and trees is unique and in many cases irreplaceable. Council policy designed to protect is often ignored and manipulated.

"Following several contentious and widely opposed planning applications affecting historic buildings and their settings in Darlington, discussions have been ongoing into the launch of an independent group.

"The aim of such a group would be to highlight the environmental impact and oppose such schemes, to protect our townscape and help to achieve development that will enhance our town and not destroy it."

For further details, contact Jenny Leeming on 01325 244389.