SENIOR councillors have approved a £200,000 scheme to improve the condition of a historic, but rundown, street.

Darlington Borough Council's cabinet yesterday agreed to release funding for the second year of the Northgate Partnership Scheme, which provides grants to improve buildings in the Northgate conservation area.

English Heritage offered to provide half of the money, if the council contributed the remaining £100,000.

John Buxton, director of development and environment, said: "Over four years, significant improvements have been made and a momentum of positive change has been created, with the resultant boost in confidence for the area.

"However, much more needs to be done to reverse decades of under-investment and economic decline in Northgate. The recommendations will improve the appear-ance and economic and social prospects of one of the most historic, but most rundown, gateways into Darlington."

The cabinet unanimously agreed to release the funding.