A NATIONAL live vote could help Stockton in its bid to connect the borough with new cycle and pedestrian routes across the rivers Leven and Tees.

Connect2 is a national initiative developed by Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, which aims to link communities separated by major barriers such as rivers, roads and railways.

Stockton Borough Council has worked with Sustrans to develop a scheme designed to bring the south of the borough closer together, by linking Ingleby Barwick with Eaglescliffe, Preston Park, Thornaby and Yarm.

Sustrans is bidding for £50m funding for Connect2 from the Big Lottery Fund's Living Landmarks: The People's Millions programme.

The winner will be decided by a national vote on ITV in early December and, if the bid is successful, Stockton will receive about £600,000 towards the cost of the proposed scheme.

Councillor Bob Cook, cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: "Our Local Transport Plan identified the need for improved cycle and pedestrian routes between Ingleby Barwick, Eaglescliffe, Thornaby and Yarm, and the proposed Connect2 scheme would meet that need.

"However, we want to make sure the proposals have local support before we develop them further. That's why we'll be carrying out a consultation exercise over the next few weeks and invite residents to have their say."