A COUNCIL has been criticised for not promoting the caf society it announced two years ago.

Darlington Borough Council announced in 2000 that pubs and cafes around the town centre would be encouraged to put chairs and tables outside in the summer.

A guide was drawn up for anyone interested in applying for a pavement caf licence, after police and licensing officials gave the idea their approval.

But two years on, traders in the Market Square have accused the council of not helping businesses in the area or promoting what is on offer.

One trader said: "A couple of years ago the council said there was going to be caf society in Darlington town centre.

"But since then there has been no more talk of it, and no action by the council to encourage people to enjoy the Market Square.

"There are two empty shops in the Market Square and more people are thinking of leaving."

Traders in the town centre are also concerned that other areas of the town are being given priority over them.

Earlier this year, English Heritage agreed to provide £90,700 to be matched by the council to give properties in Northgate a facelift.

Another trader said: "It seems mad that all the kebabs shop along Northgate can get at this money, but shops in the Market Square are closing down."

A spokesman for the council defended the authority's actions, saying: "We do still have all the mechanisms in place for people who want to apply for a pavement caf licence. We openly endorse the idea and have guidelines to help anyone interested.

"Those who have joined the caf society are very happy with it. We have had visitors from other councils who have used our approach to the caf society as a basis for their own proposals.

"Over the years, we have spent thousands of pounds in the town centre and have created a market square that we are very proud of.

"We spend money on floral displays and festivals that attract people to the town. People seem to forget what the town centre used to be like and how much better it is now."