THE most radical transformation of a North-East town centre in decades moved a step closer last night.

Planning chiefs supported the changes to Darlington's High Row, which are part of a £6.5m town centre pedestrianisation scheme.

A majority of planning committee members voted in favour of the street's Victorian steps, railings and balustrades being removed.

They also supported listed building consent being given for the 130-year-old Joseph Pease statue to be temporarily dismantled.

Their support for the controversial schemes means that only approval from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott is now needed.

Borough councillors also granted planning permission for a level pedestrian area outside the High Row shops and a series of floral and water features, together with other street furniture.

Last night, Darlington Civic Trust, which collected more than 4,600 names on a petition opposing the work, conceded defeat, describing the meeting as "a remarkable example of local democracy in 2005".

Chairman Clive Owen said: "John Prescott's department is ensuring that the council gets as much money as it wants to do whatever it wants, as long as it bears the label 'regeneration'.

"His department is also responsible for ensuring that its own rules about planning in the historic environment are followed.

"Where there is a conflict of interests, such as here on High Row, the money always wins."

But senior Labour councillors hailed the decision to back the applications as a "once in a lifetime" move to create an outstanding town centre for future generations.

Councillor David Lyonette, the council's heritage champion, said: "It is our duty to make a decision on behalf of the people of the town.

"In five years' time, we will look back, and the people will look back, and say it was the right decision."