THE proposed demolition of Darlington's'monstrous' town hall has been welcomed.

Clive Owen, of Darlington Civic Trust, said: "The town hall itself would be no loss; neither would the bus station. There is scope for a big improvement."

Robin Blair, of Darlington Market Traders' Association, said: "To get rid of the town hall would be a good thing. It's a monstrosity."

Coun Tony Richmond, leader of Darlington's Conservative group, said the whole site was in need of development. "I think it will be an excellent development if it happens."

While Darlington MP Alan Milburn said: "It's early days but it sounds like an exciting proposal for the town. Darlington is a very attractive place, clearly, and developers are interested in it.