COUNCILLORS look set to approve plans to establish three new allotment associations in Darlington .

Darlington Borough Council's cabinet meets today to approve the process of establishing the associations at allotments in Smithfield, Dodmire and Brinkburn. It will lead the way for self-management.

The changes to the service will be introduced over the next few years.

Allotment associations have been running successfully in Barmpton Lane, West Cemetery and Glebe Road for three years.

A report which goes to the cabinet today says: "There is certainly an air of excitement amongst members of the associations at the present time and it will be important to maintain this is future work is to be successful".

Extensive consultation has already taken place and a large majority at the site are in support of the plans.