Darlington Borough Council has announced that it may borrow £5 million to fund energy efficiency improvements to the town.

The money would be used to employ contractors to install energy saving renovations for free in up to 1,500 Darlington properties, though any bill savings would be handed to the authority, reports the Northern Echo.

However, the move is still subject to approval by the cabinet.

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: "It's a good idea because it's a win-win situation - a win for the environment and a win for the residents."

Mr McEwan explained that the move would help residents with regard to fuel poverty while assisting the council in decreasing carbon emissions.

Elsewhere, the first ever pay-as-you-go oil scheme has been launched in Northern Ireland.

Developed by Kingspan Environmental and Carillion Energy Services, the move will help homes in the Dungannon, Carnough and Newcastle region tackle fuel poverty.