A town centre could become a no-go area for buses and taxis under new plans.

The proposals for Darlington, drawn up by borough council consultants, aim to revitlise the town, by making it an attractive place to visit.

They include turning a large part of the centre into a pedestrianised shopping area, free of buses, cars and taxis.

Council transport policy manager Ann Carruthers said the aim was to improve the town for visitors and locals.

The consultation process started in January when suggestions for improvements were put to the public. People can now have their say on the final two ideas, at a meeting at the Dolphin Centre, at 5.30pm tonight.

The first phase would involve small scale improvements such as pedestrian crossings on Prebend Row and making sure former roads like High Row look more attractive.

The second phase, involving consultation with various groups, could lead to a ban on vehicles in the centre during shopping hours. This would affect the town from the Northgate and Crown Street junction south to Prebend Row, including the Bondgate junction.

Ms Carruthers said: "There is a lot to discuss, such as disabled access to the town and what would happen to taxis and buses.

"We got a lot of positive feedback at the last consultation meeting and we hope to receive a similar response tonight."