THE borough council has come under fire for its handling of Darlingtons controversial Pedestrian Heart project.

Conservatives in Darlington have launched a community website www.darling tonfuture.co.uk to seek the views of residents.

The group claims the council management of the project has been badly handled, criticising the levels of consultation, the way the project was co-ordinated and the impact on businesses.

Conservative councillor Ron Lewis said: When the project began I commented the result would be that Darlington looked the same as every other town. I was wrong it is worse.

The process of construction has been badly handled and the result is wholesale disruption, poor public information, potentially dangerous bus diversions, utility cuts and lost business.

We want our town centre to succeed but at this rate a successful pedestrianisation will take years to offset the damage to the towns retail reputation.

A council spokeswoman said: We have been working closely with businesses and residents in the town since work began on the scheme.

We would recommend that anyone with questions or concerns about the pedestrianisation contacts our dedicated liaison officer, Geraint Williams, who will be able to help them.

He can be contacted on (01325) 388665, his mobile is 07950 498752 or by e-mail at Geraint.Williams@darlington.gov.ukComments about the actual construction work should be directed to Tim Bowers, the site agent for the contractors Birse Civils Ltd on 07970 125381or by e-mail at tim.bowers@birse.co.uk