A COUNCILLOR has made a final appeal for plans to move Darlington's historic art gallery to be dropped.

Darlington Borough Council's cabinet is expected to pass the library plan for 2002 to 2004 when it meets today.

Part of the plan refers to the council's decision to move the art gallery from Crown Street library to the former rates room in the town hall.

The gallery will then be converted into a computer room for the public.

The move is expected to take place next month with the first exhibition in the converted rates hall booked for October.

But those opposing the move are still calling for the gallery to remain where it is.

Councillor Sheila Brown said: "The art gallery has been there since the library was built at the start of the century and it is part of the town's history.

"I don't understand why the rates hall can't be used to house the computers, especially with all the technical knowledge which exists at the town hall.

"I understand the need for computers, but there is also a need for art in the town and we should preserve our purpose-built gallery."

Darlington Borough Council had to look at converting the gallery after legislation was passed setting out new standards for libraries and museums, with a need for computer access for all.

The Government said it would take action against local authorities that did not make computers more available.

Councillor Dorothy Long, cabinet member for leisure, has defended the decision to move the gallery to make way for the computers.

She said: "I think the new gallery in the rates hall will be a huge asset to the town.

"The art gallery at the library is a good venue for our new computer suite because library staff will have IT skills that will be able to help the public using the facilities."

But Coun Brown is determined to campaign against the move.

She said: "Public feeling is running high. There has been no consultation about this and even though a decision has been made I urge the council to think again.