CONSERVATIVES in Darlington are pledging to bring council tax levels under control and end town hall secrecy if they are elected.

The Tories, who hold 15 seats on the borough council, say that council tax has increased by 45 per cent in the four years since the last local elections were held.

They say that the rise compares with a cost of living increase of ten per cent, and comes in addition to Labour Government stealth taxes and spiralling National Insurance contributions.

Conservative candidates are adamant that they would move to end the cabinet process of decision making, which they say sees council decisions rubber-stamped.

They are pledging to consult with the public, community groups and other councillors at an early stage before taking major decisions.

Both young and old in the town would also be the focus of attention for Conservative councillors, the party says.

Tory candidates insist that they will work with schools to raise standards in education for Darlington youngsters.

They would also prioritise the provision of care homes and work with health services to make access to treatment easier.

The Conservative group wants to reverse the decline of businesses in Darlington, ending the growing number of failed enterprises in the town.

The party's manifesto states: "We will encourage new business start-ups and assist them during the difficult early years, when the risk is greatest."

The Tories are also pledging to improve leisure facilities, work with police to crack down on crime - particularly drug abuse -and create a cleaner environment.

The manifesto says: "We will take steps to make our town a place where people want to shop and work, is safer for pedestrians and more attractive for new, quality shops."

Tory candidates are also planning to give greater consideration to rural areas in overall policy and decision-making.

Their target is to improve amenities and offer better services in rural areas and give the same value for council tax as that in urban districts.

Another significant pledge is one to restore a grants system withdrawn by the Labour-controlled council, which has left many village halls facing financial troubles