DRIVERS are being reminded that changes to Darlington town centre traffic system come into effect on Sunday.

Most bus stops will be revised and on-street parking for blue badge holders will also change as work begins on the borough council's £6.5m pedestrianisation scheme.

Access to certain streets will be restricted for private vehicles and there will be no access to West Row and Prebend Row.

Changes will also come into force for delivery and service vehicles. They will only be able to use certain streets before 10am and after 5pm and will have to use designated loading bays.

The changes are taking place in preparation for the arrival of contractor Birse Civils Limited in November.

Leaflets outlining the changes are available from the town hall, Dolphin Centre and tourist information centre, as well as town centre shops.

Meanwhile, the council is waiting to hear whether it will be the subject of a Local Government Ombudsman inquiry.

A resident has called for the watchdog to investigate the council for not holding a public meeting regarding alterations to High Row and not consulting the electorate through a referendum.

A council spokeswoman said: "We are aware a complaint has been made and we are responding in full. As yet, the Ombudsman has not informed us whether an investigation will take place."