ONLY four children's play areas in Darlington meet European standards, it has been revealed.

The town has more than 40 residential play areas, but a recent review has indicated that the majority are in an unacceptable condition by modern standards.

Darlington Borough Council wants to introduce a strategy to improve the run-down play areas.

Members of the authority's environment scrutiny committee will be told on Wednesday that a number of options have been drawn up to be considered when developing future strategy.

Every play area in Darlington has been inspected and the investigation has revealed that most are in poor condition, with only four, Springfield, Minors Crescent, Hummersknott and Albert Hill, meeting European standards.

One of the options is to combine play areas where possible, which would ensure the best equipment is installed at one site, with the other being used for informal play, such as football games.

Another option is close half of the play areas, and make available alternative provision, including open space with facilities including goal posts.

Councillors will also be asked to consider a rolling programme of improvement over several years.

A consultation process will take place before the outdoor play strategy is drawn up.