I CAN'T help feeling there is a worrying development for Darlington inside today's Northern Echo.

On Page 3 is a story about Middlesbrough's plans to create a market along the same lines as London's famous Borough Market, which (if you've never been) is a cracking little oasis of high quality food products.

Middlesbrough's aim is to "establish a permanent indoor high quality food market creating a town centre attraction for visitors to explore and discover and savour a unique atmosphere".

Hang on a minute - Darlington already has a unique Victorian indoor market, which has the potential to be a great tourist attraction for the town but is in desperate need of some TLC.

Imagine if it could be developed around the "Covent Garden of the North" theme, with its history brought to life. It would be a jewel in Darlington's tourism crown.

The thorny question, of course, is how is such a plan funded in these days of unrelenting austerity? Middlesbrough Borough Council has set aside £250,000 for the scheme but it is hoped the idea will attract private investment and business rates would be waived.

If it works, it is another source of competition for Darlington's retail offer. Middlesbrough's thinking is spot on...and Darlington should be taking note.