THE future of floral displays in Darlington’s town centre has been secured thanks to a new agreement.

A deal has been struck between Darlington Borough Council, Distinct Darlington and businesses in the town to ensure all 60 planters remain.

Businesses have agreed to sponsor the planters near their premises, and each company will maintain their planter by watering and weeding it

Distinct Darlington Rangers have fitted planters with plaques with the name of the business sponsor.

The council will continue to plant flowers and plants in the planters twice a year and will continue to maintain the large permanent beds on High Row.

Alex Hirst, BID manager at Distinct Darlington, said: “The sponsorship of the planters has proved to be a very successful scheme and we are delighted to have been able to work with the town centre businesses to ensure the floral displays in Darlington remain throughout the summer and winter”

Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “This scheme is an ingenious way to ensure that visitors to and residents of Darlington continue to enjoy floral displays in the town.”