A Sure Start programme in Darlington is to get a new home.

The project provides facilities to the under-fives so they can have the best possible start in life before they begin school.

Support is given to parents through health care, social services and education.

There are a number of Sure Start projects operating in Darlington, focusing on specific areas of the town.

Darlington Borough Council has received funding from the Government to build an office and nursery to house that part of the project which focuses on the Northgate South area.

The council is hoping to build the facility on land next to the Railway Centre, in McNay Street, on the site of a former car park.

Councillors will meet this week to discuss whether the site is appropriate for the development, which would provide essential services to families on their doorsteps