PLANS to cut traffic congestion, increase the number of parking spaces and encourage "greener" forms of transport are being considered by council bosses.

The issues have come under the spotlight as Darlington Borough Council draws up proposals to develop transport services over the next five years.

Community groups are being asked for their opinion on the authority's second local transport plan, which will cover the period from 2006 to 2011.

Congestion in Darlington has proved a contentious issue, with many key routes into the town centre often gridlocked, particularly in recent months because of roadworks.

Suggestions to tackle the problem include improving road junctions, greater targeting of motorists parked illegally and increased promotion of car-sharing schemes.

A major part of the draft plan is dedicated to getting people to consider alternative forms of transport.

The council wants to improve the town's health as well as reduce congestion.

The council says its research shows that 34 per cent of all trips made by car in Darlington could easily be made by bike.

And if an extra one per cent of trips in Darlington were made by bike, there would be a reduction of almost one million car trips a year.

The plan looks at extending the town's cycle network and improving safety for cyclists.

The possibility of encouraging more shops to offer delivery services will also be considered.

Public transport comes under scrutiny because the plan looks at providing better information at bus stops, real-time displays at some locations and priority lanes for buses.

The possibility of introducing ticket initiatives to link bus journeys with entry to leisure services is also being considered.

A proposal for bus services linking the town's railway stations, in North Road and at the top of Victoria Road, to major employers also features in the plan.

Once consultation on the proposals has been completed, a full council meeting will be held to vote on whether to approve the plan.

A council spokeswoman said: "The second transport plan will aim to reduce traffic congestion and improve accessibility, road safety and air quality.

"The future of travel in Darlington will impact on the economic, educational, health, environmental and social well-being of all sectors of the community and play an essential role in creating a high quality of life for everyone in the borough."