DOZENS of new trees are set to take root in Darlington town centre as part of plans to improve and enhance the area for shoppers and visitors.

The first of the new trees have already been planted in the raised beds in front of the Town Hall and more will be placed at others sites and in planters around the town centre.

The tree planting is part of the council’s ongoing bid to improve and enhance the town centre, with 30 trees set to be planted in all, including several in large metallic planters in the Market Square.

Cllr Heather Scott, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “This is the latest phase in our ongoing bid to make the town centre a more attractive and pleasant environment for our residents and visitors.

“We were thrilled that due to the hard work of our staff, local businesses, partner organisations, individuals and other groups Darlington was chosen as Best in Class in the City Centre category of this year’s Northumbria in Bloom contest and we want to build on that success.

“The trees will add year-round colour and interest to the town centre providing a more attractive environment for shoppers and visitors as well as a pleasant backdrop for the many events which are held throughout the year.

“We look forward to seeing them grow and thrive, as we hope the town centre itself will as we now focus on looking at residents comments and how best to take the town centre strategy forward.”

Other locations include Bondgate, Northgate, Skinnergate, Blackwell Gate and Tubwell Row.

A variety of species will be planted including maple, birch, purple birch, Japanese cedar, upright hawthorn, Pride of India Fastigiata, Persian ironwood, upright pine, hybrid cherry, golden Irish yew and golden leaved elm.

An area of the Market Square will be fenced off next week for the delivery of the trees, planters and soil, while planting is carried out over two or three days from Wednesday.