THE future of two town centre nurseries is in doubt after the council announced a review of childcare provision.

Darlington Borough Council is to carry out a feasibility study to see if the Kids and Co nurseries at the Town Hall and Borough Road could be merged.

Council bosses say the measure could improve town centre childcare and help the authority address gaps in services elsewhere in the Borough.

A recent survey of services revealed that there is a surplus of childcare places for young children in the town, and facilities are needed elsewhere in the Borough - particularly for families with children with a disability.

As a result, the two nurseries could be merged.

The feasibility study is expected to be completed at the end of May, when parents of children at the nurseries, as well as staff, will be consulted about its proposals.

At present there are 80 children using the Town Hall nursery.

Murray Rose, Director of Children's Services said: "We need to look at the options for improving the childcare facilities we have got in the town centre and across the Borough.

"Whatever this study shows, we will then speak to parents and staff to see what they think of the proposals.

"We need to make sure we are providing the best facilities possible for the children and their parents, both in the town centre and across the Borough as a whole."

* Could your child be affected by the plans? Have your say online or call 01325-505099.