DRAFT proposals have been drawn up to improve run-down play areas in Darlington.

Darlington Borough Council is seeking to introduce a strategy after a recent review revealed that most of the town's 41 play areas do not meet European standards.

While they are not dangerous, major capital investment is required to improve the areas to a satisfactory standard.

In a report to a special environment scrutiny committee on Monday, councillors will be told that, at the same time, play areas within Darlington are increasing because housing developers are normally required to provide new facilities as part of their developments.

This means existing budgets are stretched even further as the council attempts to deal with vandalism, maintenance, and complaints about misuse of play areas.

Every outdoor play area was inspected as part of the review.

Generally, play areas were in poor condition with only four meeting European standards - at Springfield, Minors Crescent, Hummersknott and Albert Hill.

Residents were also consulted and they agreed that play areas near their homes were not kept to a decent standard and encouraged anti-social behaviour after dark.

The proposal is to reduce the total number of sites and provide a smaller core of well- equipped and maintained sites in the town, and in rural areas.

This would involve making better use of existing equipment and moving items in good condition from play sites that are to be removed.

A number of key elements have been drawn up as part of the strategy and they include:

l Asking developers to pay a sum of £300 per property to help upgrade and maintain play areas.

l Providing new play areas in secure and safe areas, such as Eastbourne Sports Complex, where CCTV, staffing, first aid and communications are available.

l The council seeking to obtain sponsorship for new and existing outdoor play areas.