A DESCENDANT of the architects of the Stockton and Darlington Railway has backed plans to revamp heritage sites and maximise their potential as a global tourist attraction.

Matthew Pease, a descendant of Edward and Joseph Pease, has emailed his support to Darlington borough councillor Alan McNab, who has come up with ideas to preserve and develop the area around North Road Station and original buildings associated with the world’s first passenger railway.

Coun McNab and the Lib Dem group have come up with the ideas to present to a meeting called by Labour councillor Chris McEwan, the cabinet member for economy and regeneration, where the preservation of Darlington’s railway heritage will be discussed.

The meeting comes after the chairman of the Friends of Darlington Railway Museum, Richard Wimbury, criticised the Fringe development as not going far enough to preserve the town’s railway history.

The development is part of a multi-million pound project to redevelop the area north and east of Darlington town centre.

Mr Pease said: “I was very interested to hear of your recent efforts to safeguard Darlington’s railway heritage, and would wish you every success.

“As both a conservation architect and a descendent of Edward and Joseph Pease, who were involved in the original promotion of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, I have a double interest.

“Being based in Scotland, I am too far away to be of any practical assistance, but feel sure that I represent a wide consituency across the UK and even the world who share your enthusiasm and wish your project well.”

Coun McNab said: “I am delighted Mr Pease has emailed us and has taken an interest in the ideas we are putting forward.

“Darlington could be a global tourist attraction, which would significantly benefit the economy and the town, creating jobs and helping local businesses.”

Councillor Fred Lawton said: “This is something the council should have done a long time ago.”

Coun McEwan said: “The council has always taken an interest in Darlington’s history and heritage. Recently, we revamped North Road Station and the railway museum, which already attracts international interest, and are hoping to enhance this by preserving more of the buildings and sites associated with the Stockton and Darlington Railway as part of the Darlington Town Centre Fringe project.

“I am already looking at speaking to potential investors and interested parties with the hope of getting funding and support for this important project.”

He invited anyone with ideas or offers of support to email him at chris.mcewan@ darlington.gov.uk