STOCKTON Borough Council has been selected by the Government to qualify as a national pioneer for local transport initiatives.

The town will now bid to become a National Centre of Excellence for Local Transport Delivery.

As one of only 17 authorities shortlisted nationally, Stockton is also one of only two councils in the North-East to have been selected.

The selection recognises the town's successful schemes and excellent record of delivering transport projects on time and to budget.

If the bid is successful, local authorities across the country will look to adopt Stockton's techniques.

The announcement also confirmed a £1.66m funding request for the completion of the South Stockton Link, which is expected to open in spring next year.

When completed, a year ahead of schedule, the route will be the main gateway to the town centre from the A66 trunk road.

A further £1.848m was secured for integrated transport schemes, allowing the continuation of successful initiatives, such as the low floor bus project and safer routes to school.

Councillor Bob Cook, cabinet member for development and regeneration, said: "This invitation to bid for excellence is well deserved and confirms our growing reputation for getting things done.

"Stockton is, once again, recognised nationally for its excellence in delivering projects on time and to budget.

"We have invested a great deal of time and money in measures such as CCTV on buses, real-time bus information and half-fare travel for 16-19-year-olds.

"All of which have helped increase the levels of satisfaction amongst bus users."