A DISABILITY group has played a major role in a new strategy to keep Darlington pavements free of obstructions.

The Pavements for People initiative is ready for launch after wide-ranging consultation exercise involving a number of groups, including emergency services, cycling organisations and Darlington Association on Disability.

John Buxton, Darlington Borough Council's director of development and environment, told the authority's Town Centre Forum: "I think we are well aware in this day and age how pavements are abused by many people.

"At its worst, they can be completely blocked by inconsiderate motorists who think they are car parks.

"There is a tendency to forget others are not always able to see what they are coming up to, or even get past obstructions."

He said it was unfair for pedestrians, people with disabilities or mothers with prams and pushchairs to have to walk in the road.

The new policy seeks to achieve a balance between the general use of pavements and the needs of businesses, and could give a lead to other authorities.

Gordon Pybus, of Darlington Association on Disability, said one of the main issues was how the scheme could be enforced.

Councillor Ken Walker highlighted the problem of youths riding bikes on pavements. Council leader Councillor John Williams proposed talking to cycling organisations about responsible behaviour.

But Mr Pybus said he had contacted some organisations to ask for support and got a muted response.

"One chap said as far as he was concerned it was dangerous on the road and he rode on the pavement," he said.

Louise Payne, town centre manager, suggested setting up a hot line for complaints to coincide with the official launch.