SECURITY cameras are to be installed at more than 40 bus stops across Darlington in a bid to tackle vandalism.

The scheme, believed to be the first of its kind in the North-East, is part of an initiative launched by Darlington Borough Council to encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport.

Thirty-five bus stops in rural areas of the borough and ten bus stops in the town are to be fitted with closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV).

The cameras, which will be powered by solar energy in the rural areas, will record and store images around the clock.

Fitted in vandal-proof boxes, the security systems have the capacity to store images for up to 28 days.

The project, which will begin later this month, will cost £130,000 and will include improvements to lighting, passenger information and refurbishment of all 45 bus stops.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington council's cabinet member for highways and transport, said he was delighted with the investment.

"Sustainable transport is about providing people with a range of travel options other than the motor car," he said.

"Our research tells us that people are discouraged from using public transport if facilities are poor.

"It is so important that bus stops are well lit, look clean and are in a good state of repair.

"We also have to ensure that travel information is accurate and easy to understand. Most of our bus stops are safe but they can still be targets for vandals.

"The closed-circuit television cameras will help give people extra reassurance and cut vandalism because they are a proven deterrent for vandals."