DARLINGTON businesses have said the relocation of treasury jobs to the town is 'the best news for the area in recent history'.

Matthew Wharton, of Wharton Construction, said: “It will be very beneficial for a major government department like the Treasury to base itself in Darlington. I’m sure it will give the decision makers an insight into life outside London and the real-world challenges faced by regions such as ours.

“In addition, such a move will not only provide a boost to the local economy, and attract further investment, it will also raise the town’s profile.”

Ben Quaintrell, the founder and managing director of lettings agency My Property Box, said: “The campus will need a variety of support functions and services which will provide a further boost to the local economy, creating jobs, investment and a range of opportunities.

“For Darlington to be shortlisted as a potential site, highlights the town’s many qualities in terms of infrastructure and just being a great place to live and work.”

Nicky Jolley, managing director of HR2day, said: “The creation of hundreds of new, well-paid, public sector jobs in Darlington would be an incredible boost for both the town and the wider Tees Valley region.

“The government has rightly recognised that for too long, its operations have focused far too heavily on the South East, often overlooking the North East for both investment and in policy development.

“Moving the Treasury campus to Darlington would help refocus the lens and work towards creating a level economic playing field.”

Elizabeth Armstrong, managing director of Latimer Hinks Solicitors, said: “Latimer Hinks Solicitors has been in Darlington for more than 125 years and the prospect of the Northern Treasury Campus coming to our home town would be among the best news for the area in recent history. Even to be shortlisted recognises that Darlington is a great place to live and work. We’re proud of our provenance and look forward to an even brighter future for the local economy.”