Residents quizzed on open spaces

People living in Darlington are being asked to shape the future of outdoor spaces in the town.

Over the past year, a group working for Darlington Council has catalogued, assessed and mapped every piece of open and green space.

A meeting is being held on Saturday to allow the public to give their views and make suggestions for the future.

The council aims to draw up a plan of how to best manage and improve such spaces in years to come.

It is particularly keen to hear from people who regularly walk dogs, parents whose children have nowhere to play, and residents who think space near their homes is under-used.

A star rating system has been developed to indicate the quality of open spaces, taking into account the provision of seating, bins, play equipment, lighting, access and entrances.

An assessment has also been carried out to show how each space contributes to the landscape and conservation of the area.

The public consultation takes place on Saturday in St Cuthbert's church centre between 0930 GMT and 1230 GMT.