THE majority of bus services in Darlington will be run by a single company, after a buy-out was given Government approval.

Arriva North-East will take over Stagecoach's operations in the town from Sunday.

The change comes after the Office for Fair Trading (OFT) approved Arriva's purchase of rival Stagecoach.

Arriva will now operate the vast majority of bus services in the town, with a few other routes let out by Darlington Borough Council.

As part of the changes, Arriva will move out of its town centre depot at Feethams, which would free up the site for potential regeneration.

The company will move to new facilities at the Faverdale depot, outside the town centre.

The buy-out was first announced in May. It will mean Arriva's weekly, monthly and annual tickets will be accepted on all buses in Darlington, ensuring cheaper fares for passengers.

For the first time local services are to be included on electronic display boards across the town.

The fleet of Stagecoach buses will be phased out and repainted over the coming year.

Services will not be affected by the decision. All 78 Stagecoach staff will be transferred to Arriva, with no change to pay and conditions.

Liz Esnouf, commercial director for Arriva North East, said: "We are very pleased with the OFT's decision to clear the deal.

"On behalf of Arriva, I would like to take the opportunity to welcome Stagecoach's Darlington staff to Arriva North-East.

"We look forward to continuing our positive partnerships with the local authority and other stakeholders in and around Darlington."

A Darlington Borough Council spokesman said: "We look forward to a positive working relationship that will enable us to work together to improve bus services in Darlington.

"We are in discussions with Arriva about the bus depot and hope it will make the regeneration of the Feethams area easier."