RESIDENTS and business living alongside a busy road link are urged to comment on plans to create a "superoute".

Sections of the A183 Chester Road, between Chester-le-Street and Sunderland, would undergo a major upgrade if the plans win the go ahead.

The proposals include development of stretches of dual carriageway and priority bus lanes, with replacement of roundabouts by traffic lights at several junctions.

Consultation exhibitions in coming weeks to allow the public to have a say on the proposals.

It is considered that the proposed changes would benefit all road users.

As well as the introduction of the priority bus lanes, "where practicable", and the extra light-controlled junctions, there would be new pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities on sections of the A183 between Shiney Row and Springwell Road junction, in Sunderland.

Phil Barrett, Sunderland City Council's director of development and regeneration services, said it was an attempt to achieve "the right balance" for all users of what is, "a main arterial route".

He said it was a bid to make best use of available road space, for business and private motorists as well as bus passengers and pedestrians.

Mr Barrett pledged that the findings of forthcoming consultations will be considered in designing the final improvements to be submitted to the city council's cabinet.

Subject to full council approval and, with potential funding from the Department for Transport, the scheme could begin in 2012.

The estimated cost of the, 'Chester Road bus corridor improvement scheme', is believed to be in the region of £12m.

A bid for Government funding will be made by public transport operator Nexus.

If it proves successful, 90-per cent of the money would come from the Department for Transport and the rest from city council contributions.

Residents and businesses are being posted copies of the proposals, with response questionnaires and information on the consultation exhibitions.

They will take place at various venues, including Shiney Row Library, on Chester Road, Shiney Row, on Monday June 1, from 10.30am to 7pm, Tuesday June 2, between 9.30am and 5pm, and, on Wednesday June 3, from 9.30am to 1.30pm.