FIVE routes in Darlington are to be turned into safe havens for pedestrians.

As part of the borough council's Walking Strategy, five popular routes through the town have been identi-fied.

In the coming weeks, council workers will carry out an audit of the routes and note any repairs or problems for pedestrians.

Issues they will be looking at include the number of crossing places, lighting, facilities for the disabled and cleanliness.

The routes are between the town centre and Bank Top station, the Arts Centre in Vane Terrace, Woodland Road, Coniscliffe Road and Darlington College of Technology, the Memorial Hospital and Central House and North Road station.

John Button, director of development and environment at the council, said: "Walking audits of routes to the main attractions are to be undertaken.

"These audits will identify areas for improvement to provide an environment which will enhance walking and act to positively encourage walking as a main mode of transport."

It is hoped that if the routes are made as pleasant as possible more people will be encouraged to visit the town centre on foot rather than drive in.

The first route to be examined will be between the town centre and Bank Top station.

Mr Buxton said: "The station is not just a main attraction of local pedestrian trips, but also a main gateway to Darlington for visitors from outside the area.

"The audit will look at the image given to visitors of Darlington."

The town is aiming to meet national targets of increasing the average distance walked by a person to 250 miles a year and to ensure one third of all journeys are undertaken on foot.