PLANS by BT to close a Darlington call centre, with the loss of more than 100 jobs, were condemned as "insane" last night.

The trade union that represents workers affected by the closure of the telephone exchange says they have been left surprised and angry at yesterday's sudden announcement.

The Barnard Street exchange is one of four being closed nationwide by BT.

The company says advances in technology, which have speeded up the 192 service, and increased use of free Internet directory inquiry services were the main reasons behind its decision.

There are 111 workers at the exchange, of which 59 are employed by BT. The rest are from agencies, such as Manpower.

Phil Graham, Darlington branch secretary of the Communication Workers' Union, said they were concerned by the announcement, especially as money has just been spent on the exchange and the workers were the most productive in the region.

"We will work with BT to limit the personal damage, but this is a real kick in the teeth for a loyal and dedicated workforce in Darlington," he said.

"We are concerned at the insanity of the announcement considering the commitment to the infrastructure and the fact the exchange is the most productive in the region."

BT said it has a policy of no compulsory redundancies, and will be holding talks with each worker with a view to redeployment.

A spokesman said: "A lot of users of directory inquiries have switched to other products, such as the free Internet services.

"Changes in technology have also speeded up call handling times at our centres.

"Darlington has been chosen for closure because it has better prospects for redeployment."

The closure, which will come into effect in October, follows the closure of the directory inquiry service in Gateshead, and the proposed closure of the operator assistance section at the Newcastle Central Telephone Exchange building.