TOWN centre businesses are being given the chance to showcase their wares in Darlington Town Hall with the launch of a weekly ‘pop up’ shop.

Every Thursday businesses will be offered the opportunity to hold a pop up shop for free in the building’s reception, giving them direct access to 900 council and Department for Education staff.

The offer will be open to up to three businesses every Thursday from 11am until 2pm.

The aim of the initiative is to raise awareness of the offer of Darlington’s town centre traders among town hall staff, of which more than 400 are new arrivals from the old Department for Education offices in Mowden.

The first pop-up, Olivia’s, proved popular with staff and today (Thursday, May 28) saw Maison Royale take to the venue, selling gifts and homeware from a variety of Darlington-based artists and craftspeople.

Councillor Bill Dixon, Leader of Darlington Borough Council, praised the initiative, saying: “This scheme is intended to encourage members of the council and Department for Education staff to take full advantage of the great town centre they have on their doorstop.

“Darlington is lucky to have a diverse range of shops and cafes and I hope this scheme will help the town to thrive.”