Darlington Council will ask consultants to look into the potential of the scheme as the number of commuters heading to the town continues to rise.

More than 4,000 jobs were created in Darlington between 1999 and 2004 - twice the national average - according to the council.

The study is one of several being considered to tackle road congestion.

Nick Wallis, Darlington Council's cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "The town's growth in recent years means that the time is now right to look into the possibility of a park and ride scheme, and I look forward to seeing the study's findings.

"Dealing with congestion is an issue for every successful town and city across the country, and Darlington is no different.

"Reducing the numbers of cars on the roads is not something that can be done overnight, but our innovative plans and the significant investment that comes with them show how committed the council is to tackling congestion across the borough."