AN unpopular plan to cover green space with cycle paths has been overturned by the council's leader.

Darlington Borough Council's plan for a 1km path, from Stockton Road, in Great Burdon, south along the River Skerne to Mill Lane, was approved by its planning committee last month.

The decision caused outrage among residents who use the green space by the river. More than 450 people signed a petition and 48 people wrote letters.

A number of "spoke" paths, running from the main path across the green space to the Cathedrals Estate, caused particular anger.

But, despite permission being granted, residents, along with Councillor Geoff Walker and Councillor Chris McEwan, continued their opposition.

After meeting with leader Councillor John Williams, the plan was called off.

A new design will be submitted by Groundwork, the regeneration charity, which will consult fully with residents.

If residents are happy with the design, and it is distinct from the original, new planning permission will be needed.

Although planning permission cannot be overturned by Coun Williams, the developer - in this case the council - can choose not to implement the plan.

Coun McEwan said the original plan was "excessive", and welcomed the U-turn.

"What people can expect is some positive engagement from Groundwork," he said.

"We don't want to destroy what is quite an idyllic piece of green space.

"If there's going to be a path, it's going to be something that fits in.

"I have a lot of confidence in Groundwork - we see them as an honest broker.

"I was disappointed the planning committee didn't make a visit.

"That's their right, and it's my right to be disappointed. I have a personal view about what I would like to put there, and it's nothing like what was proposed.

"I'm pro-cycling, and the residents are pro-cycling, but this wasn't right."

Elaine Hunter, who helped organise the opposition, said: "We're not out of the woods, but it's a good result. We have put an awful lot of work into it.

"We have been organised, and I think it proves what pressure brought by a large number of people can do.