PLANS from a communications company in a North-East town to safeguard about 2,000 jobs have been welcomed.

Everything Everywhere (EE) hope to demolish four buildings at its existing call centre on Yarm Road Business Park, Darlington, to build one larger property to incorporate all workers.

The company, which is the brand behind Orange and T-Mobile, is Darlington's largest private employer, and the development could create scores of new jobs.

The plans have been submitted to Darlington Borough Council, with a decision expected later this year.

Chris McEwan, Darlington Council's cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “It is positive news that EE have decided Darlington is a good place for their business following the merger of T Mobile and Orange.

“They are demonstrating this through significant investment in enhanced and extended offices that retains 2000 jobs in Darlington.”