A RASH of green road markings has appeared in Darlington.

The green patches which sprang up in the Denes and Cockerton areas of town mark out an advised cycle route from West Auckland Road to the town centre.

But as they appear at both kerbsides and in the centre of roads, they have been confusing road users.

The £6,500 scheme forms part of the council's commitment to increase the cycle network in and around Darlington.

However, the 290 square metres of green paint stretching from Faverdale to Kendrew Street has received a mixed response, especially the area around the Willow Road and Hollyhurst Road mini-roundabout.

Mrs Katherine Hill, of the Darlington branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, told the D&S Times that members had mentioned the confusing roundabout at a committee meeting.

She said: "We understand the green areas are for cyclists but nobody is quite sure why. Our driving instructors rang around people to find out what they were for, but without much success. Even the police and highways department didn't have much clue."

A spokesman for Durham police traffic management section said: "We knew these markings were coming to the town but somebody will have to educate motorists on what they are for."

Council highways technician Mr Les Pownall, in charge of the scheme, shed more light on the project. He said: "The green markings map out a designated cycle route from Faverdale to the town centre. The green areas can be used by cars and cycles but priority must be given to cyclists riding on them.

"I admit it looked confusing last week especially at the Hollyhurst Road and Willow Road junction. The contractors were unable to paint the cycle symbol and the white lines around the green patches because of the weather.

"At this junction we have marked out an inside route around the roundabout and an outside route for people with less confidence."

Mr Ross Chisholm, of Elton Parade, is a member of cycling pressure group Sustrans and has been riding a bike for 47 years. He welcomed the move.

"A major complaint from cyclists is that the roads are not safe. These markings map out a safer route for cyclists and are an excellent idea. Motorists need to be aware that they are not the only ones on the road."

The advised safe route into town takes in Auckland Oval, Brinkburn Road, Acacia Street, Willow Road, Hollyhurst Road, Craig Street, Greenbank Road, Gladstone Street and Kendrew Street, where cyclists will dismount to enter the Bondgate roundabout subway system.