A NEWLY-OPENED footpath which connects two housing estates could be closed after becoming a haven for criminals.

Crime has soared in the Ullswater Avenue area since the walkway connecting it with the Railway View housing estate opened.

And Darlington Borough Council and police have now taken the unusual step of recommending the path be closed to prevent further problems for residents.

The closure needs the approval of the council's planning committee - but the news has had a mixed response.

One resident, who didn't want to be named for fear of victimisation, said: "It is a rat run for thieves. People have moved out of their homes. Kids are also causing lots of trouble.

"Bollards have been stolen, motorbikes use the footpath and there is also a problem with a drug dealer."

The resident said homes and garages had been broken into and thieves had taken bedding plants from outside people's houses.

However, Brian Preston, 67, who lives on the other side of the footpath, said he wanted the walkway to be made safer, rather than closed.

"I have had four heart bypasses and use the path as a cut through to get to the shops almost every day. They should put a fence up to make it safer," he said.

A spokesperson for Darlington Borough Council, said: "We contacted police, who carried out a lengthy and detailed assessment and found there had been an increase in crime.

"We are now putting together a planning application which will be considered at the next planning meeting."

The walkway was built by developer Three Rivers Housing, but has not been adopted by the council.

The spokesperson said: "The consequences of putting the path in were not anticipated."

A spokeswoman for Three Rivers Housing said: "We have worked closely with residents and the council to explore the options available and will support, and act on, the ultimate decision of the council."