A KEBAB shop is under investigation after it erected new signs onto the former home of one of the North-East's most important historical figures.

Industrial pioneer Edward Pease is thought to have lived at 146 Northgate when he met Tyneside engineer George Stephenson to discuss plans for the Stockton and Darlington railway.

But the Grade II listed building now bears the signs of Best Kebab.

The shop, in Northgate has attracted criticism for attaching the new sign to the exterior of the building.

Hemen Husain, one person who has complained about the new signs, said it was a "tasteless" move because of the building's history.

He added: "I was shocked, normally you wouldn't be allowed to change it so much.

"It's a nice building - they are not looking after it very well."

The building is part of a row of properties along Northgate which were granted Grade II listed status in September 1977.

The three-storey buildings date back to the early to mid 19th century and are separated into eight bays. They may form a new frontage to a group of buildings erected in the 18th century - a rear wing from the same period remains.

They form a range of styles because they have been altered in several places. The ground floors of the row of properties now includes several businesses, including Best Kebab.

When they were built, Northgate formed part of the Great North Road.

Mr Pease was born in Houndate, Darlington in 1767. He lived in Northgate from 1798 until he died 60 years later. The house was converted into shops in 1869 but did not become a takeaway until 2000.

Tourists from across the world often make a pilgrimage to the area because of its association with the birth of the railways.

Mr Pease had planned on creating a horse-drawn railway between Darlington and Stockton, until he was persuaded by Mr Stephenson to build the world's first public railway.

A Darlington Borough Council spokesman said: "We have received a complaint about a sign which has been erected at premises in Northgate. Planning enforcement officers are investigating."

A spokesman for the company said he had bought the signs to boost the profile of the shop but added he would co-operate with the council and abide by any ruling.