COUNCILLORS are to be asked to approve a three-year development plan for adult learners in Darlington.

Local authorities no longer need to produce an annual action plan as part of the Government's efforts to reduce bureaucracy.

The yearly document has been replaced with a three-yearly statement of intent.

Areas covered by the plan are determined by the funding each local authority receives from the Learning and Skills Council.

Reference has to be made to health and safety issues, staff development and any changes that need to be made.

In Darlington borough, the plan will be expected to build on a recent inspection by the Adult Learning Inspectorate.

The main change to the system is the transfer from contracting services to direct delivery.

Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities funds will also be used to support learning in Darlington's most disadvantaged wards.

Extra money is to be used to ensure that buildings are accessible to the public.

The plan will be discussed by Darlington Borough Council's cabinet at a meeting tomorrow, in the town hall.