RESIDENTS and business owners are being encouraged to take part in a consultation to shape the redevelopment of Darlington.

Darlington Borough Council unveiled plans to improve the town centre last year, with proposals including changes to the Covered Market, increasing coach facilities, developing Commercial Street and attracting a large department store to Darlington.

The council is holding an event in the Dolphin Centre on Saturday, January 12, from 10am until noon, for people to have their say on the proposals.

Councillor Chris McEwan said: "We have listened to people’s views and taken them into account when putting together our vision for the town centre.

"However, there is still time for others who are concerned about how their town centre will look and prosper in the future to have their say.”

Another consultation event will take place in the Dolphin Centre on Tuesday, January 22, between 10am and noon.